Missing Swimmer Found Dead Off Madeira Beach

PINELLAS COUNTY – A man swimming in the Gulf of Mexico during Memorial Day Weekend was found dead off of Madeira Beach, Florida.

On May 28, 2024, at approximately 5:28 p.m., deputies responded to the beach side of 13601 Gulf Boulevard in Madeira Beach, after reports of a missing swimmer.

According to detectives, 51-year-old Anthony Angelo, was with his girlfriend, 37-year-old Christen Stretch, when they took floats into the water. 

Detectives say Stretch stopped where she could still touch the ocean floor, however Angelo proceeded forward about 50 yards. 

Shortly after, Angelo began yelling for help and disappeared under the water. Stretch ran to shore and called 911.

The United States Coast Guard, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Treasure Island Fire Department and Madeira Beach Fire Department assisted with search efforts.

At approximately 7:00 p.m., deputies assigned to the Flight Unit spotted Angelo in the water a short distance from the shore. Deputies recovered Angelo’s body from the water, and he was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Detectives say the incident does not appear to be suspicious.

Next of kin has been notified.