Looking north from John’s Pass along Madeira Beach, Fla. (Photo: ClearwaterDaily)
Pinellas County authorities say that while an investigation into the May 28 drowning death of Madeira Beach man earlier this week continues, the incident appears to have been a tragic accident.
According to the county sheriff’s office, Anthony Angelo, 51, of Madeira Beach, was swimming with his girlfriend, 37-year-old Christen Stretch, when they took floats into the water. Detectives say Stretch stopped where she could still touch the ocean floor, however Angelo proceeded forward about 50 yards. Shortly after, Angelo began yelling for help and disappeared under the water. Stretch ran to shore and called 911.
The United States Coast Guard, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Treasure Island Fire Department and Madeira Beach Fire Department assisted with search efforts.
At approximately 7 p.m., deputies assigned to the Flight Unit spotted Angelo in the water a short distance from the shore. Deputies recovered Angelo’s body from the water, and he was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Detectives say the incident does not appear to be suspicious, and the victim’s next of kin have been notified.
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