On 06/16/2023, In Grand Lagoon near St. Andrew State Park, Panama City, FL. a rental pontoon boat with 9 people onboard was proceeding toward St. Andrew Bay. During their trip, a strong thunderstorm with approximately 70 mph wind gust, pushing 3'-5' seas overwhelmed the double decker pontoon boat causing it to capsize and eject all 9 individuals. 

During the chaos of being thrown overboard and struggling against the wind and seas, the passengers, none wearing personal flotation devices were at the mercy of the weather. Two of the nine succumbed to the tempest and were pronounced deceased later in the morning. One by Emergency Medical Services at City Marina, and one at Ascension Sacred Heart Bay Medical Center in Panama City.  The surviving seven individuals were medically checked at the hospital and released by the days end.

Subject1-4 was treated for water inhalation and released the same day of the incident. 

Deceased1 was one of nine occupants onboard the rental pontoon boat when it capsized due to weather. She was ejected from the boat and had minor bruises indicative of impact with boat railings. She was not wearing a personal flotation device and was unable to self rescue. She was discovered floating face down near the accident location and retrieved by USCG personnel. CPR was initiated and remained ongoing until turned over to Bay County EMS at Panama City Marina.; 

Deceased2 was ejected from the watercraft due to weather related phenomenon. She was not wearing a personal flotation device, and had minor bruises indicative of impact with boat deck rails. She was discovered floating face down near the accident location and was retrieved from the water by Bay County Fire/Rescue personnel. CPR was initiated and continued until turned over to hospital staff at Ascension Sacred Heart BMC in Panama City, FL.


Grand Lagoon
PANAMA CITY BEACH             