Beach

OCSO: 13-year old tourist drowns in the Gulf of Mexico near Destin on Friday morning

The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the tragic drowning of a 13-year old tourist in the Gulf of Mexico on Friday morning. According to the OCSO, surfers had helped rescue several juveniles they spotted struggling in the water about 65 yards offshore, but one child could not be located. The OCSO, including the Marine […]

Jared Williams

The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the tragic drowning of a 13-year old tourist in the Gulf of Mexico on Friday morning.

Deputies were called to 3690 Scenic Highway 98 around 11:30 for a distressed swimmer.

According to the OCSO, surfers had helped rescue several juveniles they spotted struggling in the water about 65 yards offshore, but one child could not be located.

The OCSO, including the Marine Unit, Walton County Sheriff’s Office, Beach Safety, EMS and Fire Departments searched for the missing swimmer. The Coast Guard and Florida Fish and Wildlife also assisted.

The teen was located deceased in the Gulf by the OCSO Marine Unit.

Join the conversation...Cancel reply

Continue reading 👇

Public Safety

Special response, crisis teams hold joint exercise at Camp Okaloosa in Baker

News

Body found floating behind Fort Walton Beach home identified as missing 17-year-old

Public Safety

Deputies investigate body found in waters near Fort Walton Beach

Public Safety

Dive teams, drones deployed in search for missing Shalimar swimmer

Lisa commented on Historic ‘Inn on Destin Harbor’ hotel maintains local charm while embracing modern amenities

“I worked at Hospitality Inn in 1973-1975 when it was the only "high rise" in Destin. Learned a lot about people working as the desk clerk. Most were visiting to...”

Respond

Eileen O'Grady commented on Dawson Group acquires Stinky’s Fish Camp, Red Fish Taco in South Walton expansion

“My prayers (and whining) have been answered! So many Texans live here and need real Tex-Mex! Can’t wait!”

Misty commented on Okaloosa Schools to honor Carter’s legacy while remaining open for National Day of Mourning

“This is giving me kneeling for flag vibes. So instead of a moment of silence-which ironically, speaks volumes!, you want them to hustle. I miss old usa. Working hard usa,...”

Kar commented on Destin residents eligible for free 2025 parking passes starting Jan. 3

“Are passes given on the spot or mails to residents?”

Brian ODwyer commented on Fort Walton Beach City Manager Jeff Peters pursues Okaloosa Parks Director role

“Maybe now we can get CLEAN BATHROOMS!!! THAT needs to be a PRIORITY!!!”

Lisa Viens commented on From Publix to Photoshoots: ‘Pickles the Cat’ stars in new 2024 calendar

“DID PICKLES THE CAT PASS AWAY? IT’S BEEN POSTED ON FACEBOOK THAT SHE PASSED AWAY. PLEASE…LET US ALL KNOW. THANK YOU! EVERYONE L❤️VES PICKLES! DECEMBER 30th, 2024”

Phil commented on New $4.2 million visitor center breaks ground at Topsail Hill Preserve

“$4.2 million could be better spent. Just put up interpretive outdoor posters at the parking lot.”

Michael Farrell commented on FWC investigating reported fatal hunting incident at Eglin Range near Freeport

“Is it a hunting accident or something else. I hunted for 3 mornings and heard only 1 shot. What are the odds of this being an accident”

Karen Hulion commented on Okaloosa School District breaks ground on new Pineview School in Crestview

“How is this going to help the crowding of the high school?? This doesn’t make sense to build another elementary school/middle school when they all flow into the ONLY high...”

Tom Lyon commented on SS United States to begin final journey from Philadelphia to become the world’s largest artificial reef

“The.Statue of Liberty was partly paid for in France by school children collecting coins. The Washington Monument program was going bust when American children sent in pennies to revive it....”