ST. PETERSBURG — A missing boater who fell into the water near Maximo Park has been located deceased following a multi-agency search, according to the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies, along with the United States Coast Guard, multiple fire rescue agencies, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and Eckerd College, responded to assist in the search in the channel south of Maximo Park.
According to investigators, the incident occurred on April 11, 2026, at approximately 11:35 a.m. near 6701 Sunshine Skyway Lane South. Detectives say 63-year-old Tony Le fell into the water from a 2002 19-foot Proline near channel marker 18. Witnesses attempted to locate him but were unsuccessful.
Authorities learned Le had been boating with family members and was seated at the rear of the vessel while it was traveling at about 10 miles per hour. After realizing he had fallen overboard, family members and nearby boaters entered the water in an attempt to find him but were unable to do so.
Detectives reported that Le had medical impairments. He was wearing a life jacket at the time of departure but is believed to have removed it prior to entering the water.
Search efforts continued until nightfall on April 11 and resumed the following morning.
On April 12, 2026, at approximately 3:27 p.m., members of the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team located Le’s body in the channel at a depth of about 19 feet after conducting multiple recovery dives.
Investigators say the incident appears to be accidental. Next of kin has been notified.
The investigation remains ongoing.