ST, PETERSBURG, Fla. (WFLA) — Jannus Live announced that Jeffry Knight, the boat operator connected to the deadly Clearwater Ferry crash, was no longer part of its management team Wednesday
In a social media post, the concert venue said Knight would be stepping down “effective immediately.” Jannus Live will operate normally under its existing management team.
“This decision was made out of respect for the victims of the recent Clearwater Ferry tragedy and to ensure that ongoing developments do not detract from the work of the talented artists, staff, and community partners who have long contributed to the success of Jannus Live,” the venue wrote.
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Knight was the boat operator who crashed into the ferry, which was carrying 44 people at the time. The incident caused the death of a Palm Harbor man and injured 10 other people.
The Better Business Bureau listed Knight as the president of Knight Global Entertainment, LLC, which runs Jannus Live, prior to the Wednesday announcement.
Tuesday, Knight’s attorney sent a lettter to the FWC stating that Knight did not leave the scene of the crash without helping and having one of the passengers on his boat call 911.
“Several witnesses aboard Mr. Knight’s vessel indicated that the frantic mother of an infant on board pleaded for immediate transport following the crash because she was concerned that her 8-week-old child may have suffered injuries,” Attorney J. Kevin Hayslett wrote. “However, given the circumstances, including vessel draft, water depth, and the compromised condition of Mr. Knight’s boat, he prudently determined that returning to dock as quickly as possible was the best course of action.”
The FWC also said Knight had no alcohol in his system and was cooperating with the investigation.
As of this report, Knight has not been charged with any crime in the collision.
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