PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. – The trial for the man accused in the fatal Clearwater ferry boat crash has been delayed.
Jeffry Knight is facing eight felony counts of leaving the scene of a boat crash. Each charge carries maximum sentences of up to 30 years in prison.
Investigators say Jeffry Knight was operating the boat that collided with the Clearwater Ferry on April 27, 2025. One person was killed, and several others were hurt.
The trial is now scheduled to begin on Feb. 1, 2027.
However, additional pretrial proceedings are set to take place. Another pretrial hearing is scheduled for July 24.
Knight, who was arrested July 28, has pleaded not guilty.
Knight admitted he was driving his boat that night when it collided with the Clearwater Ferry near the Memorial Causeway Bridge. Jose Castro, 41, was killed in the incident.
Through his attorney, Knight stated he left the scene after initially staying to help render aid because his boat was taking on water.
Law enforcement officials say that a search warrant revealed that Knight’s 37-foot powerboat had not taken on water following the crash.
Knight’s attorney previously said the ferry should have blasted a whistle or horn before the crash and suggested the ferry had more passengers onboard than allowed. He has denied any negligence or wrongdoing in the crash.
FWC Capt. Matt DallaRosa stated shortly after the incident that Knight submitted to a breathalyzer test and there was no alcohol in his system.