Nokomis Man Sentenced to Probation in Boating DUI Crash

21-year-old pleaded no contest to boating under the influence after friend injured in propeller accident.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 5:36pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a boat propeller against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually illustrating the dangers of boating under the influence.A harsh, unforgiving close-up of the boat propeller that injured a young man, exposing the dangers of operating watercraft under the influence.Nokomis Today

A 21-year-old Nokomis man, Luka Muscaro, received 12 months of probation for driving his father's boat while drunk and underage, resulting in his friend sustaining injuries from a propeller accident during the H2O Music Festival near Boca Grande in May 2025. Muscaro pleaded no contest to a lesser charge of boating under the influence.

Why it matters

Boating under the influence incidents can have serious consequences, both for the operator and any passengers involved. This case highlights the need for stricter enforcement and education around safe boating practices, especially during crowded events where alcohol is present.

The details

Investigators said Muscaro was behind the wheel of the boat when one of his friends' legs got caught in the propeller while they were repositioning the boat. Officers on the scene reported that Muscaro was slurring his speech and uncoordinated, and his blood alcohol level was 0.124. In addition to probation, Muscaro will be evaluated for substance abuse that could lead to mandatory treatment.

  • The incident occurred at the H2O Music Festival near Boca Grande in May 2025.
  • Muscaro was sentenced on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.

The players

Luka Muscaro

A 21-year-old Nokomis resident who pleaded no contest to a charge of boating under the influence after a propeller accident that injured his friend.

Muscaro's Friend

The friend who was injured when his leg got caught in the propeller of the boat Muscaro was operating.

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What they’re saying

“The friend who was injured was in the courtroom and told defense attorneys to ask the judge to waive the no contact order that was in place from the incident so he and Muscaro could see each other again. The judge granted the request.”

— Muscaro's Friend

What’s next

Muscaro will be evaluated for substance abuse and could face mandatory treatment as a condition of his probation.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of responsible boating and the dangers of operating a vessel under the influence of alcohol. It also underscores the need for stronger enforcement and education around boating safety, especially during crowded events where alcohol is present.