Gulfport Man Drowns After Falling Off Para-Sail Boat in St. Pete Beach
55 year-old Thomas M. Howell of Gulfport, Florida, was operating the Sun Sports Para-sail boat in the Gulf of Mexico approximately 300 yards off of the shore when the incident occurred about 11:37 AM on Saturday morning.
According to deputies, Howell suffered an apparent medical episode and fell overboard and was not wearing a life preserver. Another employee reeled in the patron that was para-sailing and then began circulating for Thomas. Jet skis in the area helped in locating Howell in the water.
Howell was reported to be in the water for 5-10 minutes before he was located and removed. CPR was initiated and Thomas was brought to shore behind the Trade Winds Island Grand Resort at 5500 Gulf Blvd. St. Pete Beach Fire Department began attempting advanced life saving measures.
Howell was transported to Palms of Pasadena Hospital where he died.
Deputies say that alcohol and/or drugs do not appear to be factors in Howell’s
death.
The investigation continues.