Ferry Captain Speaks After Crash: Services Set to Resume in Clearwater
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — The captain of the Clearwater Ferry released a statement expressing gratitude toward those who assisted in saving lives during the fatal accident at the end of April.
On April 27, the ferry collided with a pleasure craft operated by Jeff Knight, who had been managing Jannus Live up until his departure.
A single individual died in the crash, with another ten sustaining severe injuries.
The lawyer stated that Captain Dennis Kimerer expressed his gratitude for surviving the event.
I feel incredibly lucky to be alive and am profoundly grateful to the brave passengers and emergency responders who acted heroically.
rescuers, Good Samaritans, and healthcare providers whose prompt actions helped save lives during and following the accident.
My thoughts are with all those who were injured—and especially with the family mourning the loss of a beloved father. Out of respect for them and everyone affected, I will not be engaging in a public back-and-forth regarding the causes of this tragedy. I trust the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and other authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation, and I will continue to cooperate fully with them.
The Clearwater Ferry is anticipated to return to regular service on Thursday. According to the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority, the ferry transporting passengers will not be the same craft that was part of the accident.
The U.S. Coast Guard performed safety inspections prior to the decision to resume operations.
“The Clearwater Ferry team and the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) continue to be heartbroken for the people involved in the collision on April 27, including Jose Castro, who lost his life, the people who were hurt, and their families,” a PSTA statement said. “They reiterate their deep gratitude for the first responders, crew members, and other boaters who helped during the tragic event.”
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