Boater Arrested for Abandoning Injured Passenger

BOYNTON BEACH, Fla. — A 28-year-old man, Michael Gee, has been charged after allegedly losing control of his boat on the Intracoastal Waterway and leaving an injured passenger behind. The incident, which occurred on Sunday night, was captured on video by diners at a nearby restaurant, revealing a chaotic scene as the boat spun out of control.

Details of the Incident

Witnesses reported that Gee’s boat collided with the Woolbright Bridge before crashing into private docks. The impact ejected a female passenger, resulting in injuries to her back, arms, foot, and head. A dog was also on board during the incident. Douglas Oakland, a boat captain who recorded the event, described the moment, stating, “We heard a bang. Not traumatic but like, oh my god what happened.” He noted that the boat was spinning wildly, leading to a dangerous situation.

As the boat continued to spin, patrons at the Prime Catch restaurant rushed to assist the woman in the water. However, witnesses claim that Gee fled the scene, abandoning the injured passenger. Oakland emphasized the severity of the crash, saying, “Hitting a dock going 30 knots or 25 knots… that’s a different level.” After traveling approximately three miles, Gee’s boat sank near the George Bush Boulevard Bridge, where he and the dog were rescued by other boaters.

Both Gee and the injured passenger were airlifted to local hospitals, where they are expected to recover. Gee now faces charges for leaving the scene of a boating accident and property damage. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is continuing its investigation and has not yet determined if drugs or alcohol were involved in the crash.

Community Response and Ongoing Investigation

The incident has sparked concern among local residents and boaters, highlighting the importance of safety on the water. Witnesses expressed relief that the injuries were not more severe, with Oakland stating, “Well, at least no one was hurt. He shouldn’t have done it.” The FWC is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, and further details may emerge as the inquiry progresses.

This incident serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with operating a vessel. Authorities urge all boaters to prioritize safety and ensure that passengers are protected at all times. As the investigation unfolds, the community remains vigilant about boating safety and the potential dangers on the water.