A 45-year-old Indian tourist has died after being rescued from the ocean while swimming at a popular reef site in the Florida Keys, authorities confirmed.
🌊 Distress reported during swim
The deceased, identified as Abhinav Lamba, was swimming at Molasses Reef around 11 am on March 18 when he reportedly showed signs of distress and went underwater, according to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.
Crew members of a nearby commercial dive boat spotted him and located him at a depth of approximately 25 feet.
🚑 Rescue efforts and hospitalisation
He was brought aboard a dive vessel where CPR was immediately initiated. He was then transported to Mariners Hospital in Tavernier for emergency treatment.
Despite efforts to revive him, he was declared dead at the hospital.
🔍 No foul play suspected
Authorities have stated that there is no suspicion of foul play in the incident. An autopsy report is awaited to determine the exact cause of death.
Officials have not confirmed whether Lamba was accompanied by family or travelling alone at the time.
🌐 Popular yet risky dive location
Molasses Reef, located within a protected marine sanctuary off Key Largo, is known for its rich marine life and is a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkelling. Fishing is prohibited in the area due to its protected status.
The incident comes shortly after another diving-related death in the region, where a 71-year-old man from Missouri died following a deep-sea dive near Islamorada.
⚠️ Safety concerns highlighted
The back-to-back incidents have raised concerns about safety during water-based recreational activities, especially in deep or open-sea environments.
Authorities continue to emphasise caution and adherence to safety guidelines while engaging in such activities.