Importance Score: 45 / 100 🔵
Viral Video Captures Florida Boat Captain’s Assault on Young Fisherman
A Florida charter vessel captain was filmed jumping onto a smaller boat operated by a young angler, unleashing a profanity-filled tirade that rapidly spread online. The incident has led to assault charges against the captain and sparked widespread condemnation.
Profanity-Laced Outburst in Charlotte Harbor
Brock Horner, 40, faces assault charges after he allegedly boarded a boat piloted by 22-year-old Gage Towels in Charlotte Harbor, Punta Gorda. Law enforcement reports indicate Horner aggressively confronted Towels over a prior disagreement that reportedly occurred earlier that day.
Arrest and Assault Charges Filed
The contentious encounter, which has amassed over 15 million views on Facebook, intensified when Towels informed Horner he had mistaken him for someone else and admonished him for speeding through a restricted maritime zone.
“Wrong Person” Claimed
“Do you want to engage in physical violence?” Horner, who identified himself and his companions as military veterans, reportedly yelled.
Footage of the incident depicts Towels questioning if Horner was attempting to appear intimidating in front of his associates, and instructed him to leave.
“Everyone here knows I am an intimidating individual,” Horner reportedly exclaimed.
“Tough Motherf—er” Rant
“I am the most proficient charter captain you will ever encounter,” he allegedly screamed before abruptly leaping onto Towels’ boat, as documented in the video.
Confrontation Turns Physical
“Relax, please relax!” a frightened Towels repeatedly exclaimed while accelerating the boat, attempting to flee with Horner still onboard.
Victim’s Fear and Escape Attempt
“I am just a kid, man, I am just a kid.”
Horner persisted in verbally attacking the younger fisherman, demanding an apology as Towels moved to the edge of his boat, asserting his innocence and offering apologies.
“Repeat that action, and witness the repercussions,” Horner allegedly threatened, while Towels expressed respect for his military service, according to the video recording.
“You have antagonized the wrong individual.”
Aftermath and Legal Repercussions
The widely circulated event resulted in Horner’s arrest; he now faces charges for burglary with assault or battery, non-forced entry, according to police authorities. Horner has since expressed remorse for his actions.
Zero Tolerance Stance by Police Chief
“This type of conduct will not be tolerated on our waterways–or anywhere within our city limits,” stated Punta Gorda Police Chief Pam Smith in a public announcement.
“We are dedicated to guaranteeing the safety of all individuals in our community, both on land and on the water.”
Apology and Remorse Expressed
The charter captain’s legal representative has since issued a statement conveying his client’s regret, while commending Towels for his “remarkable composure” and “calm demeanor.”
“He is profoundly apologetic,” the statement conveyed.
“An initial moment of frustration and concern escalated inappropriately and unjustifiably.”
Veteran Status and TBI Acknowledged
The statement further indicated that Horner is a decorated combat veteran who sustained severe injuries in Afghanistan, adding that his reputation and business have suffered considerably since Towels’ video became viral.
“He served with distinction, received numerous commendations, and suffered a traumatic brain injury during combat. He has been recognized as 100% disabled by the Department of Veterans Affairs,” the statement elaborated.
“This is not an excuse, but it is an integral part of his narrative. He answered the call to service when his country needed him, and that service warrants respect. We are in an era where online indignation can swiftly devolve into personal devastation. Just as Gage demonstrated grace during the incident, we urge others to extend the same consideration now.”
Horner remains in custody at the Charlotte County Jail.