Coward’s Move Nearly KILLS Two Children

A drunk New York tourist abandoned his speeding jet ski seconds before it crashed into two children on Florida waters, leaving one child fighting for life while he walked away uninjured.

Story Highlights

Daniel Patrick Grubert jumped off his jet ski moments before collision, causing unmanned watercraft to slam into family
Two children ages 7 and 8 thrown into water with serious injuries, one life-threatening
Suspect showed clear signs of alcohol impairment but refused breath test, claiming he only drank “Twisted Tea”
Grubert faces multiple felony charges including BUI causing serious bodily injury

Reckless Abandonment Leads to Catastrophic Collision

Daniel Patrick Grubert was racing his rented Yamaha WaveRunner near Johns Pass in Madeira Beach when his reckless decision nearly cost children their lives. The 48-year-old New Yorker failed to maintain proper lookout while speeding, then jumped off his jet ski when he realized collision was imminent. His unmanned watercraft slammed into another jet ski operated by Walter Wodzien, who had two young children as passengers.

The October 12th incident occurred around 2:30 p.m. in busy tourist waters. Both children were thrown violently into the water upon impact. Emergency responders from Madeira Beach Fire Department conducted immediate water rescues, rushing both victims to Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. One child sustained life-threatening injuries while the other remained in stable condition.

Impaired Operator Refuses Accountability

Pinellas County deputies observed clear signs of alcohol impairment when they arrested Grubert. The suspect displayed bloodshot eyes, unsteady balance, and strong alcohol odor. Despite obvious intoxication, Grubert refused breath testing and downplayed his consumption, claiming he only consumed “Twisted Tea” beverages. Blood samples were collected for toxicology analysis, with results pending.

Grubert now faces serious felony charges including two counts of BUI causing serious bodily injury and one count of reckless operation of a vessel. His decision to abandon the watercraft directly caused the severity of injuries, as the unmanned jet ski became an uncontrolled projectile. This cowardly act demonstrates complete disregard for innocent lives, particularly vulnerable children enjoying family recreation time.

Florida’s Ongoing Battle Against Impaired Boating

This incident highlights Florida’s persistent struggle with boating under the influence, as the state leads the nation in watercraft accidents and fatalities. Tourist-heavy areas like Madeira Beach see increased enforcement during peak seasons, yet impaired operators continue endangering families. The rental aspect adds complexity, raising questions about screening procedures and safety briefings for out-of-state visitors.

The case underscores the vulnerability of children in recreational boating incidents and the devastating consequences of adult irresponsibility. While Grubert awaits legal proceedings from Pinellas County Jail, two young victims and their family face potential long-term trauma and medical challenges. This preventable tragedy serves as a stark reminder that impaired operation of any vehicle—whether on roads or waterways—puts innocent lives at grave risk.