WATCH: Florida boater missing over 36 hours rescued 12 miles from coast
- Oops!Something went wrong.Please try again later.
A boater from Florida is back on dry land after an incredible rescue at sea.
>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<
Charles Gregory had not been heard from in more than 36 hours after he headed out on his 12-foot boat.
His frantic parents had just about given up hope when the Coast Guard spotted the 25-year-old Saturday morning.
Watch: Dangerous heat: Monday could be one of the hottest days of the year in Central Florida
He was found sitting in his swamped boat, 12 miles off the coast.
#FinalUpdate @USCG crews rescued 25YO Charles Gregory, Saturday, after he went missing on a 12-foot jon boat, 12 miles offshore of #StAugustine, #Florida.
Press release: https://t.co/OGaPL6S6nS#USCG #CoastGuard #SAR pic.twitter.com/WezyZHEXB8— USCGSoutheast (@USCGSoutheast) August 5, 2023
“We cannot thank the Coast Guard, fire rescue, St. Augustine, everybody, the paddle boarders, everybody, we just want to say thank you so much,” said Charles’ mother Debra Gregory.
Watch: Orlando officers shot in the line of duty still recovering at hospital
First responders rushed him to safety after returning him to shore.
His father says he was very dehydrated and sunburned.
Watch: Around 40 units respond after boarded-up home catches fire in Seminole County
He is now back home and recovering with his family.
Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
