A Florida man is facing serious legal consequences after an altercation at a popular Miami lobster diving location. Michael Joseph Simpson, 51, of Miami Beach, has been charged with attempted murder following allegations that he intentionally shut off the underwater air supply for a diver during a heated dispute over fishing spots. The incident occurred on July 29 in waters near Miami-Dade County, leading to an arrest affidavit filed by local authorities.
Details of the Confrontation
The confrontation began around 5:30 a.m., according to an arrest affidavit. A vessel owner reported that his boat was already anchored at a lobster diving location when Simpson arrived in a gray conch vessel, speeding toward them and circling before stopping just 10 feet away. An argument ensued regarding who had the right to the spot.
The situation escalated quickly. The victim's diver entered the water while occupants on the other boat warned against sending another diver into the area. According to the affidavit, Simpson threatened to cut off the air supply, stating, "I'll cut off the brownie if I want to." Witnesses claim they saw Simpson swim over to the floating Brownie air compressor and intentionally turn it off.
Rescue and Arrest
The diver was left tangled in hoses and anchor lines, gasping for air. The vessel owner dove into the water to pull out his crew member, who was described as disoriented and confused about what had happened. Video footage captured Simpson swimming away from the scene immediately after the incident.
Simpson fled the area on a 39-foot contender boat but was positively identified by several occupants aboard the victim's vessel. Detectives contacted Simpson’s attorneys on August 4, leading to his voluntary surrender. He is currently being held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center in Miami-Dade County.
Defense Denies Allegations
Simpson’s defense attorney has firmly rejected the charges. Howard Srebnick of Black Srebnick stated that video footage and witness interviews will prove Simpson was nowhere near the air system during the incident. The legal team expressed optimism that the State Attorney's Office would review the evidence, dismiss the charges, and clear their client's name.
