Gail Smith Obituary, Death News – Authorities are investigating the death of a 66-year-old man who went missing while scuba diving off the coast of Manasota Key Beach in Florida on Monday. The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the man, identified as Gail Smith, was found several hours after he was last seen by his diving partner.
According to officials, Smith had been diving with a companion, 63-year-old Daniel McAtee, in waters offshore from Manasota Key Beach earlier that morning. The two men had planned a recreational dive in an area known for underwater exploration. Smith was last seen shortly after the pair entered the water in the morning.
When Smith did not return as expected, his diving partner became concerned and began searching the surrounding area. After being unable to locate Smith, emergency services were contacted later in the morning to report a missing diver.
Sarasota County lifeguards and multiple emergency response teams were dispatched to the area. During the initial response, lifeguards located a piece of dive equipment floating some distance from where Smith was last seen. Officials noted that the item was not attached to anything, and its location suggested it may have drifted due to environmental conditions such as wind or water movement.
A coordinated search effort was launched involving the sheriff’s office marine unit and dive team. Additional assistance was provided by rescue boats from the U.S. Coast Guard, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and other local and state agencies. Crews searched the surrounding waters for several hours as part of the rescue and recovery operation.
Later in the afternoon, witnesses on the beach reported seeing a body floating in the water. Beachgoers alerted authorities and helped bring the individual to shore. Emergency personnel on the scene confirmed that the individual was Gail Smith. His family was notified shortly afterward.
Officials have not released details about the cause of death and stated that the incident remains under investigation. Authorities emphasized that such investigations are standard procedure and are conducted to fully understand the circumstances surrounding incidents involving water activities.
Community members expressed sadness following the news, and officials reminded the public of the importance of caution and preparedness when participating in ocean-related recreation. Conditions in coastal waters can change quickly, and safety planning is critical for all water activities.
The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office said it will continue reviewing the incident and gathering information. Further updates may be released as more details become available.
As the investigation continues, authorities are encouraging anyone who may have been in the area at the time and witnessed relevant activity to contact local law enforcement. The community is keeping Smith’s family and loved ones in their thoughts during this difficult time.
