FWC seeking help of public regarding vessel striking scalloper, July 6, in Homosassa
FWC Divers Down flyer.
Citrus County, Florida - The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is investigating a boating accident that occurred on Thursday afternoon, July 6, 2023, about 3:45 p.m. when a vessel’s propeller struck a man who was diving for scallops. The incident occurred at the scallop grounds northwest of St. Martins River in the Crystal River / Homosassa area. After striking the victim, the boat left the scene. The victim was transported to an area hospital in unstated condition.
The FWC; is seeking assistance from the public to help identify the vessel involved in an incident.
The Vessel
Witnesses described the vessel as a Robalo or Sea Fox with a top. The body of the vessel is white, beige, or blue.
The Suspect
The vessel operator has not been identified, but was described as a middle aged white male, with a large build, wearing a white shirt.
Homeowners with Security Cameras
The FWC is asking homeowners with security cameras facing the Crystal River or Withlacoochee River to check their footage for a vessel matching the vessel's description - a white, beige or blue Robalo or Sea Fox with a top - between the hours of 1:30 p.m. to sunset (8:29 p.m.) on Thursday afternoon, July 6, 2023.
Contact the FWC
Anyone with information is asked to call the Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (888-404-3922) or text 847411 (Tip411) with the keyword "FWC" and information about the boat operator. Tipsters may be eligible for a reward.
Scalloping Regulations
When scalloping in open water, divers should stay within 300 feet of a properly displayed divers-down flag or device.
When scalloping on a river, inlet, or navigation channel, divers should stay within 100 feet of a properly displayed divers-down flag or device.
Boat operators traveling within 300 feet of a divers-down flag or device in open water or within 100 feet of one on a river, inlet, or navigational channel must slow to idle speed.
Boating Information
For more information, visit myfwc.com/boating/regulations.