Detectives Investigate Drowning in Gulf of Mexico
On 06-26-19 just before 11:30 a.m., Hernando County deputies were dispatched to Zebrafinch Avenue in northwest Hernando County regarding a Marine Incident/Possible Drowning that was occurring in the inland waters of the Gulf of Mexico, just off the coast of Hernando County.
The caller told dispatchers that her husband had not resurfaced after jumping into the water to save the couple’s dog.
The HCSO Marine Unit, the Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC), the United States Coast Guard (USCG), and Hernando County Fire Rescue were also dispatched to the scene to assist in the search for the victim.
Investigation revealed the couple, Ted and Minnie Davis, were on their airboat in the area (mentioned above) when the couple’s dog jumped overboard. The current pulled the dog underwater so Mr. Davis jumped into the water to rescue the dog. Mr. Davis was not wearing a life jacket, nor was the dog.
When Mr. Davis jumped in the water, he too was pulled underwater by the current. Mrs. David did not see him again. Mrs. Davis called 9-1-1 for assistance.
At approximately 12:22 p.m., an FWC officer spotted Mr. Davis in the water near Bird Island. The FWC officer advised HCSO dispatchers that he believed Mr. Davis was deceased. The FWC officer removed Mr. Davis from the water and transported him to the Bayport Boat Ramp, where Hernando County Fire Rescue personnel were awaiting their arrival.
Upon arrival at the boat ramp, Mr. Davis was confirmed to be deceased by Hernando County Fire Rescue personnel.
The investigation is ongoing, as detectives await the results of the autopsy on Mr. Davis.
There is no additional information available at this time.
