Lobster Spot Dispute Ends in Alleged Air Supply Attack

A disagreement over a prime lobster diving location near Fisher Island escalated dramatically on July 29, leading to an attempted murder charge for Michael Joseph Simpson, 51. Simpson surrendered to authorities on Tuesday, August 1st, following the incident that occurred around 7 a.m. during Florida's annual lobster mini season.

Investigators allege Simpson aggressively approached another boat, claimed the spot, and threatened to cut off the air supply of an 18-year-old diver. Witnesses reported Simpson subsequently shut off the diver's air system. The diver was rescued and appeared disoriented but unharmed. Simpson has denied the allegations through his attorney, who stated video evidence and eyewitnesses support Simpson's account and that he never disabled any equipment.

Simpson's defense maintains he moved his boat away to de-escalate the situation and fully cooperated with law enforcement. His legal team expressed optimism that the charges will be dismissed after a thorough review of all evidence, including exculpatory witness accounts.