Joseph Hall Jr. Obituary, Death – Over the weekend, tributes poured in for Joseph Hall Jr., a well-known South Florida charter boat captain who tragically lost his life in a road rage shooting in Sanford, near Orlando. Hall, 43, was the captain of Sailors Choice Party Fishing Boat and Anglers Choice Sport Fishing in Key Largo. His sudden death left his family, friends, and community devastated.

The fatal incident occurred Thursday evening and involved 24-year-old Jaden Alexander Harris of Lake Mary, who has been charged with second-degree murder. According to Sanford police, the confrontation began on State Road 46 when Harris said Hall was driving “super slow,” prompting him to pass in the oncoming lanes. Harris later claimed that Hall swerved toward him, which made him think an accident might occur.

Investigators reported that Harris recalled an unrelated event weeks earlier when another driver caused him to crash into a mailbox, leaving him responsible for damages. Harris said he did not want a repeat situation, so he decided to follow Hall to capture his license plate number.

At some point, Harris said Hall rolled down his window and insulted him, further escalating tensions. The conflict continued until Hall pulled into an apartment complex, with Harris following behind in his BMW. Harris stated that Hall blocked the roadway, stepped out of his Jeep Gladiator, and challenged him by saying, “Now what’s up?”

Harris claimed that he tried to back away and warned Hall that he had a gun. According to his account, Hall kept walking toward his vehicle and “lunged” at him, prompting Harris to fire his weapon while seated inside his car. After the shooting, officers arrived around 5:25 p.m. to find Hall unresponsive and Harris surrendering with his hands raised.

However, Sanford police determined that Harris had multiple opportunities to disengage but chose instead to pursue the situation unnecessarily. Police Chief Cecil Smith stated that what led to Hall’s death was a minor traffic dispute combined with Harris’s poor choices. Investigators concluded the shooting was not justified. Harris has since pleaded not guilty to the murder charge and remains held without bond.

News of Hall’s death brought an outpouring of grief from his family, friends, and the fishing community in Key Largo. A spokesperson for Sailor’s Choice described him as “one of the best,” saying the company was heartbroken by the loss. Hall’s wife posted a heartfelt tribute on Facebook, sharing that fishing was far more than work for him — it was his passion, his joy, and a way to connect with countless people. She said he loved introducing families and children to fishing, making every trip a memorable experience.

“He poured his whole heart into the company,” she wrote. “The boats weren’t just work ― they were his passion, his second home, his way to connect with so many of you. His spirit will always be on the water.”

For many in Key Largo, Hall will be remembered not just as a skilled captain, but as a man who brought joy and lasting memories to everyone who stepped on his boat.