PUNTA GORDA, FL – A viral video depicting a heated altercation between a charter boat captain and a young fisherman in Punta Gorda has triggered multiple investigations. The incident, which occurred under the 41 Bridge, has sparked widespread outrage and drawn attention from several law enforcement agencies. Â
The video, uploaded to YouTube by 22-year-old Gage Towles, shows Captain Brock Horner aggressively confronting Towles, using profanity, and then boarding Towles’ vessel. The dispute reportedly stemmed from a previous encounter on the water, with Horner alleging that Towles’ boat had been operating without proper lighting. Â
The U.S. Coast Guard, Punta Gorda Police Department, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission are all conducting investigations into the incident. Additionally, North Port Fire officials are investigating possible involvement of one of their firefighters.
The incident has highlighted the power of social media to quickly disseminate information and the importance of responsible conduct on Florida’s waterways. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.
