Florida Charter Captain Arrested After Viral Boat Confrontation

Brock Horner faces burglary with assault charges following an unlawful boarding incident captured on video, as investigations and public backlash continue.

Brock Horner, 40, was arrested on April 4, 2025, and charged with burglary with assault or battery after unlawfully boarding Gage Towles' boat during a heated confrontation on April 1.
The incident, which began over accusations about improper boat lighting, escalated when Horner boarded Towles' boat, grabbed his shirt, and issued threats, leaving Towles fearing for his safety.
A video of the altercation, posted online by Towles, has gone viral with over 15 million views, serving as key evidence in the ongoing investigations by multiple agencies, including the U.S. Coast Guard and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Horner, a decorated combat veteran who suffers from a traumatic brain injury, issued a public apology through his attorney, citing frustration and concern but acknowledging his actions were unacceptable.
Since the video's release, Horner’s business has been severely impacted, with professional ties severed and his family reportedly facing harassment and threats.