FWC Officers Find Missing Diver Alive Near Calda Channel
According to multiple news outlets, a wife’s worst nightmare ended with a miraculous rescue near Calda Channel off of Key West. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) pulled a missing diver to safety shortly before nightfall. The successful search and rescue mission occurred on August 11, 2021, as a storm approached in the distance.
At Mase Mebane Seitz, we represent individuals injured in diving accidents in Miami and throughout South Florida. Unfortunately, many dive injuries are preventable, caused by another person’s negligence. If you or a loved one has been injured in a diving accident, contact our office at (305) 487-8863 for a free consultation.
A Dive to Remember
Daryl Sample’s wife watched as her husband descended below the waves in full dive gear, not knowing that he would fail to resurface for hours on end. As reported by ABC Local 10 News, Sample started his dive at approximately 4:15 PM. His wife became concerned when an hour passed and he had not returned.
At around 7:10 PM, after an exhausting search, individuals on the dive boat contacted the FWC for assistance. The FWC immediately dispatched a patrol boat to the location where Sample began his dive. With night approaching, the search and rescue officers knew their time was limited to locate the missing diver.
Success on Search and Rescue
FWC officers were joined by a U.S. Coast Guard air and marine unit. Responding officers faced an uphill battle as storm clouds approached. As darkness came, rain and lightning appeared in the distance.
Miraculously, officers were able to find Mr. Sample in the coastal Florida waters. He had been treading water for over 45 minutes in full dive gear, according to reports. Within seconds the sun would set, and the water would be shrouded in the darkness making it nearly impossible to see the stranded diver.
Dangers in the Deep
Diving is an extraordinary way to explore the depths of the ocean. Florida’s warm waters make it one of the most popular diving destinations in the world, but dangers lurk in the deep. An inexperienced dive boat operator or dive guide who fails to take proper safety precautions can cause disaster.
Common causes of dive accidents:
- Negligent boat operator
- Failing to use a dive buddy
- Lack of proper safety gear
- Malfunctioning dive equipment
- Boating under the influence
If you suffer a dive injury, you might be entitled to compensation. It is important to act fast to ensure you receive the maximum recovery possible in your case.
Superior Legal Representation for Dive Injuries
A diving accident can cause serious, life-threatening injuries or death. At Mase Mebane Seitz, we have committed our practice to helping injured parties obtain the largest settlement or verdict in their case.
Call our office at (305) 487-8863 or fill out our online contact form to discuss your case with an experienced attorney. All consultations are free and without obligation to retain our services.