Jury watches heartbreaking video of teen dancing with friends before boat crashes, kills her
Key Points:
- Florida real estate developer George Pino is on trial for second-degree manslaughter and vessel homicide after a boat crash on Sept. 4, 2022, killed 17-year-old Luciana Fernandez and injured others during his daughter's birthday party.
- Prosecutors allege Pino was driving recklessly at 47 mph through a narrow channel with intoxicated teens onboard, struck a channel marker, and caused the fatal crash, accusing him of prioritizing being a "cool dad" over safety.
- The defense argues Pino made a human error without criminal intent, was not impaired by alcohol, and suffered a traumatic brain injury causing memory issues; they claim the speed was safe and no witnesses reported reckless behavior.
- Investigators found 61 alcohol containers on the boat, and prosecutors contend Pino lied about his drinking to avoid accountability, while the defense disputes any impairment or recklessness on his part.
- The crash resulted in a large hole in the boat, throwing passengers into the water; Fernandez died from drowning-related injuries after being trapped under the vessel, and six others were hospitalized.