MIAMI, Florida — A dispute over a prized lobster-diving location in Biscayne Bay escalated into an attempted murder case after authorities accused a Miami Beach boater of deliberately shutting off an 18-year-old diver’s air supply underwater.
Michael Joseph Simpson Jr., 51, was charged with attempted felony murder following the July 29 confrontation during Florida’s two-day recreational spiny lobster season. According to a Miami-Dade sheriff’s report, two groups argued after one accused the other of taking their preferred diving spot.
Investigators allege Simpson entered the water and shut down a Brownie’s Third Lung system supplying air to diver Hunter Coffer. Boat owner Steven Del Sol reportedly pulled Coffer to the surface by the air hose after witnesses shouted that a diver was still underwater. Coffer emerged gasping, disoriented and tangled in lines, according to the report.
Simpson’s attorney, Howard Srebnick, strongly disputes that account. He said Simpson never touched the equipment and claims video shows another person becoming entangled in the system while Simpson was elsewhere. The defense also says multiple witnesses support Simpson’s version and criticized investigators for making an arrest before interviewing them.
Simpson surrendered Aug. 4 and was released on $10,000 bond. Prosecutors will ultimately determine whether to formally pursue the attempted murder charge.
Sources:
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
