Lawsuit Filed Following Fatal Boat Crash Involving Teen Driver
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The family of 15-year-old Collin Moorefield, who died following a boat crash in St. Petersburg, has initiated a wrongful death lawsuit against the parents of the teen operator, Anjan and Katherine Tharakan. The crash occurred on March 3 when the boat struck a dock, resulting in both Collin and the driver being thrown into the water, with Collin later succumbing to his injuries. The Moorefield family, represented by attorney Ian Leavengood, argues that the Tharakans were negligent in allowing their son to operate the boat without adequate experience and supervision. They also allege that alcohol may have been involved and that the driver was distracted by his phone before the crash.
In response, the Tharakans filed their own lawsuit to cap damages at the value of their boat. The driver has not faced any criminal charges as investigations by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission continue. The outcome of these legal proceedings remains uncertain as both families navigate the ramifications of this tragic incident. The case highlights the issues of youth boating safety and parental responsibility in Florida.