TAMPA, Fla. – The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is searching for a man who went missing while fishing in the Bypass Canal.
On Sunday, December 27, 2020, at approximately 4:00 a.m., deputies were dispatched to the area of US-301 and East Dr. Martin Luther King Boulevard, in Tampa, after family members notified HCSO of their failed attempts to get in touch with their relative. Deputies learned the man had been dropped off at the dock by a family member around 8:00 p.m. Saturday.
Upon arrival, deputies observed a capsized jon boat in the canal and located fishing gear nearby. HCSO’s Dive Team and Aviation Unit are assisting in the search, but at this time, the man has not been located.
Detectives have not found any indication of foul play.
“An extensive search is underway to try and find this fisherman who went out for the evening, as his family says he normally does,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “We can only imagine the family’s anguish as they wait for answers. Our skilled team is combing the area, and our divers will be back out in the morning to continue the search efforts.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office at (813) 247-8200