PUNTA GORDA, Fla. - A viral video capturing an altercation between charter boat captain Brock Horner and a young fisherman has sparked outrage and an ongoing investigation by local authorities. The incident, which occurred on April 1, 2025, has been viewed millions of times online, raising questions about boating safety and the behavior of those on the water.
In the video, 22-year-old Gage Towles is seen fishing alone under the Barron Collier Bridge when Horner, the owner of Tarpon Coast Fishing Charters, approaches him on his boat. Horner accuses Towles of not having his safety lights on earlier that morning, a claim Towles vehemently denies. The confrontation escalates as Horner, who claims to be the "best charter captain you will ever meet," boards Towles' boat, leading to a tense exchange that includes profanity and threats.
The altercation was reportedly fueled by a previous incident where Horner was seen speeding and cutting under the bridge. Towles, who was not involved in that earlier encounter, attempted to de-escalate the situation, stating, "Bro, my lights were on. I wasn’t sitting there." However, Horner continued his aggressive behavior, insisting on an apology and boarding Towles' vessel.
"Chill bro. Chill bro," Towles pleaded as Horner took control of the boat. The incident was recorded and later posted on Facebook, where it garnered over 12 million views and 41,000 comments by April 4. Many viewers expressed shock and called for Horner to face legal repercussions for his actions.
In a statement released by his attorney, Scott Weinberg, Horner publicly apologized to Towles and anyone affected by the incident, saying, "What began as a moment of frustration and concern escalated in a way it simply should not have." The statement also highlighted the impact of the viral video on Horner's life, noting that his business has been severely damaged and his family has faced harassment and threats.
"Brock is a decorated combat veteran who was severely injured in Afghanistan," Weinberg emphasized, defending Horner's character amid the backlash. "He served honorably, earned multiple medals, and suffered a traumatic brain injury in combat. He is recognized as 100% disabled by the Department of Veterans Affairs." Despite these credentials, many have questioned his actions during the incident, which have been characterized as "boat rage."
Local authorities, including the Punta Gorda Police Department, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and the U.S. Coast Guard, have launched investigations into the incident. The Punta Gorda Police Department confirmed that a police report was filed on the day of the altercation and urged the public to refrain from calling about the incident, as it was being actively investigated.
As the investigation unfolds, the fallout from the video has extended beyond Horner. Fellow charter captain Brock Wagner, who operates in the Everglades, reported being mistaken for Horner and targeted by internet vigilantes. "I did have to send the wife out of town yesterday," Wagner stated, expressing concern over the backlash. He has since clarified that he is not associated with Horner and received support from the fishing community in setting the record straight.
In addition to the investigation, the Fisherman's Village in Punta Gorda announced it has severed ties with Horner, distancing itself from the negative attention surrounding the incident. Pathfinder Boats, the manufacturer of the boat used by Horner, also distanced itself from him, stating that his actions did not reflect their values.
Legal experts have weighed in on the situation, with criminal trial attorney Spencer Cordell noting that while Horner's behavior was alarming, it may not necessarily rise to the level of criminal activity until he boarded Towles' boat. Cordell explained, "If they do decide to charge a trespassing charge it is a misdemeanor, which is a criminal offense, it's not as serious as a felony but it is the kind of thing he could potentially be facing jail time for."
As the investigation continues, the incident has ignited discussions about anger management and safety on the water, highlighting the need for respect among boaters. Towles has expressed hope that sharing the video could prevent similar incidents in the future, stating, "I look at it now like I possibly can save another person from Brock Horner or possibly someone’s life by getting this captain off the water."
With the video continuing to circulate online and garner attention, the implications for Horner's career and personal life remain uncertain. Local authorities are expected to provide updates as their investigation progresses, while the fishing community watches closely to see how this incident will impact their industry.
