Overview
- Investigators say Michael Joseph Simpson swam to a floating surface‑air unit called a Brownie’s Third Lung on July 29 and turned off the diver’s air hose while an 18‑year‑old was submerged, leaving the teen gasping and disoriented when pulled to the surface.
- Cellphone and social‑media video plus eyewitness statements were used to identify Simpson and became key evidence that led to his voluntary surrender and arrest, authorities say.
- Simpson was initially booked on an attempted felony‑murder charge but a judge reduced the count to attempted second‑degree murder at a bond hearing; he posted a $10,000 bond and was released pending prosecution.
- Simpson’s attorney and family say the allegations are false, point to on‑scene Florida Fish and Wildlife officers who they say cleared him, and assert other eyewitnesses will back his not‑guilty plea.
- Miami‑Dade officials say the investigation remains active, prosecutors may seek additional arrests, and the episode has raised questions about conduct and leadership on local boating‑safety efforts.