STORY UPDATED: 2 p.m., Sept. 1
ANNA MARIA – A body has been recovered that is believed to be the swimmer who went missing Sunday evening while swimming off Bean Point in Anna Maria.
A press release issued by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office at 12:35 p.m. Monday says, “A body has been recovered from the water just west of Anna Maria Island. The deceased is believed to be the missing swimmer. Deputies are in the process of positively identifying the man and notifying family members.”
Earlier in the day, the sheriff’s office issued a press release that said, “At approximately 7 p.m. on Aug. 31, witnesses reported seeing an adult male about 100 yards from the beach in the Gulf. He had been swimming with another man, who was rescued and brought to shore by people nearby. An extensive search was initiated by MCSO deputies and involved several boats, jet skis, paddleboards and aerial support from the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Coast Guard. So far, there have been no signs of the missing swimmer. The search continues today.”
Bean Point swimming concerns
Due to the strong rip currents and recent water rescues and near drownings that have occurred at Bean Point, the Anna Maria mayor and city commission have already expressed their support for enacting and enforcing a ‘no swim’ zone at Bean Point once the logistical and enforcement details are researched and finalized.
