The Tampa Police Department is in the midst of conducting investigations related to two bodies separately recovered from the waters off the Courtney Campbell Causeway. The first, a deceased black male in his mid-teens, was retrieved on the evening of Sunday. The second, an adult Hispanic male estimated to be in his early-to-mid 30s, was found yesterday morning. In a report by Tampa.gov, officials state there were no "obvious signs of trauma" on either individual.
At this stage, detectives are working to both positively identify the victims and to duly notify their families. The preliminary investigations by the Tampa Police do not currently suggest that the incidents are in any way related. They also have found no evidence to tentatively suggest any foul play having occurred. However, to definitively establish the causes of death, the cases have been passed on to the Medical Examiner's Office.
As the community grapples with these tragedies, a caution has been issued by the National Weather Service. A HIGH rip current risk advisory is now in effect for the Tampa Bay area. Authorities are urging the public to "exercise caution" and to "avoid swimming especially during periods of high surf and strong currents," according to a statement obtained by Tampa.gov.
The investigations are ongoing, and Tampa Police have assured that they will provide additional updates as they become available. In the meantime, they are asking anyone with information about either incident to come forward to assist in piecing together the final moments that led up to these individuals being recovered from the water.
