Clearwater and St. Petersburg Mourn the Loss of Jeff Knight Following Tragic Boating Accident Near Memorial Causeway Bridge
Clearwater, FL — The Clearwater and St. Petersburg communities are in mourning following the tragic death of Jeff Knight, a well-known and beloved resident, who lost his life during a boating accident on Sunday evening, April 27, 2025, near the Memorial Causeway Bridge.
According to authorities, the accident occurred at approximately 8:43 p.m. when the Clearwater Ferry, carrying more than 40 passengers, was struck by another boat. The ferry, following the collision, became grounded on a nearby sandbar. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, and the incident was soon declared a “mass casualty event” due to the number of injuries sustained. Sadly, despite immediate efforts by first responders and medical personnel, Knight succumbed to his injuries shortly after the crash.
Jeff Knight, who was a familiar face in the community for his involvement in local events, businesses, and charity initiatives, has been remembered by friends and family as a kind, generous, and spirited individual. His sudden passing has sent shockwaves through both Clearwater and St. Petersburg, where he was admired not just for his community work but for his infectious enthusiasm and compassion.
In a statement released Monday morning, Clearwater Police confirmed that the operator of the boat that collided with the ferry initially fled the scene but was later apprehended by law enforcement. An investigation, led jointly by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the U.S. Coast Guard, is underway to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the tragic crash. As of now, authorities have not released the name of the boat operator pending further investigation.
Knight’s family issued a heartfelt message thanking first responders, hospital staff, and the public for their outpouring of support:
“Jeff lived life fully and loved deeply. His warmth and energy touched everyone he met. Our hearts are broken, but we are grateful for the incredible memories and the community that has embraced us during this difficult time.”
Several others aboard the ferry suffered injuries, some of them serious, and were transported to area hospitals including Morton Plant Hospital and St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa. Clearwater Police reported that six individuals were initially classified as “trauma alerts,” with two victims transported by helicopter for urgent medical care.
Knight’s death has reignited discussions about boating safety and the growing traffic along popular waterways near Clearwater Beach and Memorial Causeway, particularly during busy weekends. Local officials are now reviewing safety measures and policies to prevent future tragedies.
A memorial service for Jeff Knight is being planned by his family and friends. Details will be announced in the coming days, and the community is expected to turn out in large numbers to celebrate his life and legacy.
As Clearwater and St. Petersburg mourn the loss of one of their own, tributes continue to pour in on social media, with countless residents sharing stories of Knight’s generosity, positivity, and unwavering community spirit.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available.