A snorkeling trip turned tragic for a Boca Raton man who lost his life in Key Largo, law enforcement officials reported on Friday. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the circumstances leading to the death of Leonard Cleveland Brown, a 54-year-old man who lost consciousness after snorkeling near John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
The incident occurred after Brown had been snorkeling with a commercial vessel operated by Bungalows Key Largo. According to the Local 10 News, staff on the vessel immediately commenced CPR upon noticing the man in distress. Despite efforts to revive him, Brown was declared dead after being transported to Mariner’s Hospital in Tavernier.
As agreeable as the weather, foul play is not suspected in Brown's death, and investigators are waiting for an autopsy to determine the exact cause. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office has not hinted at any theory prior to the medical examiner’s findings, maintaining a stance that places emphasis on facts over speculation.
Sharing details of the aftermath, deputies said the company staff, without wasting time, began life-saving measures for the victim. Reinforcing the gravity of the incident, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office X account reported that swift action was taken by all involved in response to the emergency. However, Brown's life was, unfortunately, unable to be saved. The investigation into Brown's death is ongoing.
Man dies following snorkeling incident: https://t.co/RmY672b0bj
— Florida Keys Sheriff (@keyssheriff) February 16, 2023
