Tragic Boat Crash in Clearwater Leaves One Dead, Ten Injured

Tragic Boat Crash in Clearwater Leaves One Dead, Ten Injured

Clearwater, FL – April 29, 2025 – A devastating collision between a recreational boat and a passenger ferry in Clearwater, Florida, has left one person dead and ten others injured, prompting a swift response from authorities and a community in mourning. The incident, which occurred on the evening of April 27, 2025, near the Memorial Causeway Bridge, was declared a “mass casualty event” due to the severity and scale of the injuries.

The crash took place around 8:40 p.m. during the final day of the Sugar Sand Festival, a popular local event. A 37-foot recreational boat, carrying six passengers, struck a 40-foot Clearwater Ferry with 45 passengers onboard. The impact was catastrophic, with video evidence showing the recreational vessel rapidly approaching and overriding nearly three-quarters of the ferry’s rear, causing extensive damage. The ferry came to rest on a nearby sandbar, where first responders and good Samaritans from nearby boats worked tirelessly to evacuate passengers.

Among the victims was 41-year-old Jose Castro of Palm Harbor, who tragically lost his life. Ten others were injured, with six classified as trauma alerts. Two passengers with severe injuries were airlifted to local hospitals, while others were transported by ground. Brenda Alvarez, a 31-week-pregnant passenger on the ferry, described the harrowing moment of impact: “It was like a yacht hit us. The back of the ferry was completely shattered, and there was a huge dent. We were all screaming, trying to hold on.”

The recreational boat fled the scene, sparking outrage and intensifying the investigation. Authorities later located the vessel at Belleair Boat Ramp, approximately 3.75 miles from the crash site, with the assistance of the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit. The boat’s operator, 62-year-old Jeff Knight, cooperated with law enforcement. A Breathalyzer test confirmed no alcohol involvement, but investigators are still determining whether the incident qualifies as a hit-and-run. No charges have been filed as of yet, pending further review by the State Attorney’s Office.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is leading the investigation, with support from the U.S. Coast Guard. Advanced tools, including lidar technology, are being used to analyze the damage and reconstruct the sequence of events. “We are committed to a thorough investigation to understand exactly what happened and ensure justice is served,” said an FWC spokesperson. The Clearwater Fire Department, which labeled the incident a mass casualty event, praised the coordinated response of multiple agencies and civilians who aided in the rescue efforts.

The Clearwater Ferry, operated by the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority, issued a statement expressing deep condolences to the victims and their families. “The safety of our passengers is our top priority, and we are fully cooperating with the authorities to support the investigation,” the statement read. The ferry service, a vital part of Clearwater’s tourism and transportation network, has temporarily suspended operations as the community grapples with the tragedy.

Witnesses and survivors have shared stories of chaos and bravery. “People were jumping into the water to help others,” said one bystander who assisted in the evacuation. The incident has raised questions about boating safety and regulations, particularly during high-traffic events like the Sugar Sand Festival, which draws thousands to Clearwater’s waterfront.

As the investigation continues, the Clearwater community is coming together to support the victims and their families. Vigils are being planned, and local leaders are calling for increased safety measures to prevent future tragedies. For now, the focus remains on healing and seeking answers in the wake of this heartbreaking event.

For updates on the investigation or to offer support, contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission or the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority.