At approximately 6:12 p.m. on Monday, July 22, 2024, Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a distress call near 12960 Gulf Boulevard in Madeira Beach. The incident involved two swimmers caught in a strong current.
According to authorities, 31-year-old Hector Colon of Riverview and his roommate, 34-year-old Angel Nunez, were in the water when they encountered the powerful current. Nunez managed to swim backward and stay afloat, but Colon began yelling for help before disappearing under the water. Nunez promptly went to shore and sought assistance from a beachgoer who dialed 911.
The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office mobilized its Marine Unit, Flight Unit, and Dive Team. Collaborating with the United States Coast Guard, Treasure Island, Madeira Beach, and Seminole Fire Departments, they conducted an exhaustive search throughout the night.
Tragically, at approximately 6:20 a.m. on July 23, 2024, a body matching Hector Colon’s description washed ashore near 14900 Gulf Boulevard. Deputies confirmed the identity and pronounced Colon deceased at the scene. Next of kin have been notified.
The incident does not appear suspicious, according to investigators.