Vessel Homicide under Section 782.072
In Florida, the crime of “vessel homicide” under Section 782.072, F.S., is the killing of a human being by the operation of a vessel by another in a reckless manner likely to cause the death of, or great bodily harm to, another.
Vessel homicide is generally a second degree felony. Under Section 782.072(2)(a), F.S., the crime can be charged as a first degree felony if:
- At the time of the accident, the person knew or should have known, that the accident occurred;
- The person failed to give information and render aid as required.
Effective October 1, 2025, the penalty for a conviction for vessel homicide is increased from a second degree felony to a first degree felony as a level 8, if a defendant has a prior conviction for committing any of the following:
- DUI manslaughter under s. 316.193(3)(c)3., F.S.
- BUI manslaughter under s. 327.35(3)(c)3., F.S.
- vehicular homicide under s. 782.071, F.S.
- vessel homicide under s. 782.072, F.S.
Other boating crimes include:
- Careless and Reckless Boating;
- Leaving the Scene of a Vessel Collision; and
- Boating Under the Influence (BUI).
Attorney for Vessel Homicide in Florida
The attorneys at Sammis Law Firm represent clients charged with boating crimes in Florida including the serious criminal offense of vessel homicide.
Conact us for a consultation to discuss the charges pending against you, the potential penalties, and possible defenses to the charge.
Our offices are located in Tampa, Clearwater, New Port Richey and Winter Haven, Florida.
Call 813-250-0500.
This article was last updated on Friday, September 25, 2026.
