California Scuba Boat Captain Convicted of 'Seaman's Manslaughter' in Deadly Fire

Captain Jerry Boylan has been found guilty of "seaman's manslaughter" in connection with the 2019 boat fire off the coast of Southern California that killed 34 people, making it the deadliest maritime disaster in recent US history. Boylan was the only person to face criminal charges related to the incident. The jury found him guilty of one count of misconduct or neglect of a ship officer. The fire, which started in a plastic trash can, quickly spread, trapping passengers and crew members below deck. Boylan could face up to 10 years in prison. The verdict comes after changes to maritime regulations, congressional reform, and ongoing civil lawsuits.