Florida Charter Captain Arrested for Boat Assault, Investigation Ongoing

Captain Brock Horner, a 40-year-old Florida charter boat captain, was arrested on April 4 after a viral video showed him unlawfully boarding another boater's vessel and threatening the victim, Gage Towles, during a heated confrontation on April 1. The incident, which has garnered millions of views on social media, involved Horner accusing Towles of aggressive boating and demanding an apology, escalating to physical threats. Following the video’s spread, Horner was charged with burglary with assault or battery and remains in custody at Charlotte County Jail. The Punta Gorda Police Department stated that the investigation confirmed Horner's unlawful actions, prompting a strong response to ensure safety on local waterways. Other local charter captains, mistakenly identified as Horner, have faced online harassment and threats as a result of the incident. The case has raised concerns about aggressive behavior among boaters and the consequences of viral social media content.