In a dramatic legal battle unfolding in Pinellas County, Florida, a resident is seeking justice after a collision on the water left him injured and his sailboat damaged. Michael J. Auton filed a complaint against Paul C. Debunza in the Circuit Court for Pinellas County on November 21, 2024, alleging negligence that resulted in personal injuries and property damage.
The incident at the heart of this case occurred on February 26, 2023, when Auton was sailing his Hobie Catamaran near Archie’s Island. The plaintiff claims he was navigating safely when Debunza's large powerboat struck his vessel at high speed without warning. According to the complaint, Auton did not see Debunza's boat before the collision, which submerged his sailboat and caused significant injuries to his leg and back.
Auton's legal team argues that Debunza failed to adhere to established maritime navigation rules, including failing to maintain a proper lookout and operating at an unsafe speed in a congested channel. "Defendant’s powerboat struck Plaintiff's sailboat at an excessive and high rate of speed without slowing down," the complaint states. Witnesses corroborated these claims by observing Debunza's reckless operation of his vessel and reporting it to the police.
The aftermath of the collision saw Debunza allegedly accusing Auton of causing the crash while maintaining a distance that made communication difficult. Instead of assisting or exchanging information as requested by Auton, Debunza reportedly left the scene, further aggravating the situation.
Auton's lawsuit seeks damages exceeding $50,000 for medical expenses, loss of earnings, pain and suffering, mental anguish, and permanent or continuing losses related to his quality of life. The plaintiff also demands accountability for violating safety statutes designed to prevent such maritime accidents.
Representing Michael J. Auton are attorneys Jacob J. Munch from Munch and Munch P.A., along with Royce C. Haddad Jr., Adam J. Talley, and Chris J. Roberts from Haddad & Associates. The case is being overseen by Judge Ken Burke under Case ID 24-005 122-ClI.