A jet ski operator has been taken into custody after a shocking incident was captured on video, showing him deliberately knocking a fisherman out of his kayak, causing the footage to gain widespread attention on social media.
On Sunday, October 27, a TikTok user known as coastalfloats shared a post appealing for assistance in locating the individual he clashed with.
In the footage, the TikToker, while fishing from his kayak, encountered a group of jet ski riders disturbing the area and frightening away all the fish. Upset by the disturbance, he confronted one of the riders, who then intentionally created large waves directed at his kayak.
As a result, coastalfloats and some of his valuable gear ended up in the water, a moment he captured on camera.
@coastalfloats This occurred today. Left me floating in the intercoastal. Remember to wear your life vest!
In a subsequent video, the TikToker expressed gratitude towards two individuals in another boat who came to his aid, offering him a towel and a safe spot to recuperate for a little while.
Thanks to the original footage, which provided a clear view of the jet ski and its operator, viewers were able to track down the rider, identified as Phillip Bunch, through the hull number displayed on the vessel. The follow-up from coastalfloats confirmed that Bunch had been arrested and faces multiple criminal charges.
@coastalfloats Part 2. There are repercussions for both of us.
As per the inmate lookup from Nassau County Jail, Bunch has since been released. However, court documents indicate he has been charged with six felonies.
On October 28, his charges included battery and criminal mischief exceeding $1,000. The following day, he faced additional charges for failing to report a boating accident, fleeing the scene, reckless operation, and resisting law enforcement.
The videos quickly went viral, leading many viewers to express their support for the fisherman in the comments section.
“Nah man, get a lawyer and take everything from that guy,” one user advised.
Another noted: “He’s probably going to have to pay you for probation or similar.”
“I’m glad you captured the footage for evidence, and I’m relieved you’re safe,” a third commented.
This isn’t the first instance of a viral TikTok resulting in an arrest in Florida. Earlier, on October 18, a man known as Lieutenant Dan was taken into custody, with his boat being impounded for allegedly posing a “public health hazard.”
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