Charleston, September 17, 2025

News Summary

Luca Karl Gruber, a Charleston resident, has been arrested for reckless homicide following a boating accident that resulted in the death of USC student Tallon Davis Goff. Gruber was operating the boat when Goff suffered fatal injuries after striking a bridge. As investigations continue, Gruber’s bail has been set at $25,000, with his first court appearance scheduled for November.

Charleston Man Arrested for Reckless Homicide After USC Student’s Fatal Boating Accident

Charleston authorities arrested Luca Karl Gruber, a 22-year-old resident, on September 15, 2025, following a deadly boating incident that claimed the life of a University of South Carolina (USC) student. Gruber faces a charge of reckless homicide by operation of a boat, a felony that could result in serious consequences including fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, a maximum sentence of ten years in prison, or a combination of both upon conviction.

The tragic incident occurred on July 3, 2025, at approximately 2:30 p.m. near Tea Farm Creek. Gruber and his friend, Tallon Davis Goff, also 22 and a USC student from Florence, were out on a motorboat. Gruber was operating a 1988 Boston Whaler at a speed of 27 mph when the incident occurred. The pair successfully navigated under the first bridge of a double-bridge overpass on U.S. Highway 17 but failed to adequately handle the second bridge, which is significantly lower.

During this miscalculation, Goff’s head struck the bridge, resulting in devastating blunt force trauma. Tragically, he succumbed to his injuries just hours later, as confirmed by the Charleston County Coroner’s Office.

Gruber, who was pursuing studies in criminology and forensic pathology at USC, shared a love for the outdoors with Goff. After his arrest, Gruber was released from Charleston County jail on a personal recognizance bond, which will only require him to pay a $25,000 bail if he fails to appear in court. His first court date is set for early November 2025.

Details of the Incident

The July 3 incident that led to Goff’s tragic death unfolded during a recreational boating outing. Friends and families of the pair are mourning the loss while the community grapples with the implications of such accidents on waterways. The charge of reckless homicide implicates that the operator of the vessel acted with disregard for the safety of others.

Legal Background

The classification of reckless homicide by operation of a boat allows for prosecuting those whose negligent operation of a vessel results in death. In South Carolina, the maximum penalty for this charge can include substantial fines and extensive prison time, emphasizing the gravity of the crime.

As boating incidents increase during summer vacations, this case serves as a somber reminder of the inherent dangers of water activities, especially when safety measures are overlooked.

Conclusion

Authorities and community members are watching this case closely as it develops in the coming months, marking a significant moment for those affected by boating regulations and safety education efforts. Gruber’s situation continues to evolve, with legal proceedings to follow as the situation warrants further attention and scrutiny.

FAQ

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Additional Resources

• Post and Courier: Luca Gruber Arrested
• Live 5 News: Woman Charged with Murder
• Boston 25 News: Police Identify Victim
• CBS News: Boston Houseboat Murder
• NBC Boston: Overnight Police Investigation
• Wikipedia: Boating Safety
• Google Search: Boating Safety Regulations
• Google Scholar: Boating Accidents Law
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Boating
• Google News: Boating Accidents

Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON

The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.