Attempted-Murder Charge for Diver’s Air Supply Incident

Incident Details and Charges

A man faces serious legal trouble following an incident during lobster mini-season. Michael Simpson, 51, has been charged with attempted murder related to accusations that he turned off a diver’s oxygen supply during a dispute over a diving spot. The event occurred on July 29, east of Fisher Island.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) stated that the situation arose from a diver altercation, not a boating accident. Initially, Simpson claimed the FWC had cleared him shortly after the event. However, the FWC confirmed locating the boat Simpson was on, and they informed the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office (MDSO) for further investigation.

Simpson’s Denial and Official Response

Simpson, through a family spokesperson, denied the allegations of tampering with anyone’s diving equipment. Despite his denial, the MDSO took him into custody, making them the lead on the investigation.

The FWC noted in a statement that officers responded promptly to the scene. They interviewed Simpson, although details of his account remain unclear. People aboard the diver’s boat reported no injuries but emphasized the importance of informing law enforcement.

Details of the Incident

On the morning of July 29, a diver entered the water at a popular lobster-diving site. The boat’s captain reportedly warned someone on a nearby vessel, a 39-foot Contender, to avoid the Brownie diving system—a compressor supplying fresh air to divers. According to the report, Simpson became hostile, threatened to shut off the compressor, and then proceeded to do so.

Witnesses claimed Simpson’s actions deliberately cut off the diver’s air supply. The first boat’s crew shouted warnings and the captain jumped into the water, rescuing the diver using the air hose. The diver emerged from the water tangled in the hose and anchor line, gasping for air and confused about the incident.

Simpson’s Background and Community Role

Michael Simpson is well-known within the boating community. He serves on the Miami-Dade County’s Boater Safety and Bay Education Task Force. The task force was created in response to a fatal 2022 boat crash that claimed the life of 17-year-old Luciana “Lucy” Fernandez.

Following the crash, which resulted in Lucy’s death and severe injuries to Katerina “Katy” Puig, the task force released recommendations for enhanced boating safety and law enforcement. Simpson, alongside key community figures such as Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and others, contributed to these efforts.

Simpson owns Island Queen Cruises & Tours, a company providing various excursions from Miami. His family’s statement highlights his dedication to boating safety, describing him as one of South Florida’s most responsible boaters. Simpson aims to defend himself in court, hoping to maintain his longstanding good reputation.