Attorneys state Clearwater Ferry crash boater did not engage in hit-and-run behavior.

Attorneys representing the driver involved in a collision with a Clearwater Ferry have stated that their client did not engage in a hit-and-run and cited inadequate lighting conditions of the ferry at the time of the incident. The collision occurred on Sunday night, resulting in one fatality and approximately ten injuries.

In a detailed communication submitted to investigators, Kevin Hayslett, attorney for Jeff Knight, outlined Knight’s account of the events following the crash. Notable assertions in the correspondence include that Knight instructed a passenger aboard his vessel to contact emergency services immediately after the incident. Additionally, he remained on-site and offered assistance until first responders arrived. Knight’s departure from the crash site was attributed to his boat taking on water, which raised concerns about its stability.

The Clearwater Ferry was reportedly carrying 45 individuals, including two crew members, when the incident was reported around 8:43 PM. Time-stamped footage obtained from a city web camera illustrates the collision occurring at approximately 8:40 PM, revealing his boat colliding with the ferry before it drifted away from the scene. Almost ten minutes elapsed before Knight’s vessel began moving away from the location.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, which is leading the investigation, indicated that Knight, aged 62, was cooperative and underwent a Breathalyzer test that registered no alcohol in his system. Currently, Knight faces no criminal charges in connection with the incident.

Hayslett’s correspondence reveals that the passenger who called 911 remained on the line for nearly 12 minutes, relaying critical updates and instructions to ensure the ferry passengers’ safety by recommending that they wear life jackets. Knight took measures to secure his boat to the ferry to better assist during the emergency.

The aftermath of the crash led to a mother, traveling with her 8-week-old child, urgently requesting medical attention due to concerns over potential injuries. However, due to the circumstances regarding Knight’s vessel, the attorney argues that returning to the dock swiftly was the most reasonable decision.

Moreover, the letter raises “credible concerns” regarding the ferry’s navigational lights at the time of the collision. Witness reports indicated that the vessel appeared inadequately illuminated and that both the crew and passengers were distracted by nearby dolphins prior to the incident. This included claims that a spotlight was used to observe the dolphins, potentially compromising navigational awareness.

Furthermore, the letter argues that visual evidence of the crash has been altered, requesting access to unedited footage to assess visibility conditions accurately during the incident.

Knight, known for owning the St. Petersburg concert venue Jannus Live, has a history of legal issues, including multiple arrests for driving under the influence. In a separate incident in 2012, Knight’s yacht was involved in the tragic drowning of a friend, following a night of socializing, which drew significant media attention.

As the investigation develops, many in the community are watching closely, given the tragic outcome of the accident and Knight’s previous legal history.