Three distressed swimmers die in Gulf, BCSO officials say

PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WMBB) – On Friday, the Bay County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call reporting three swimmers in distress in the Gulf.

The incident occurred behind Watercress Condominiums, 6201 Thomas Drive.

Authorities confirmed that three swimmers were located and recovered from the Gulf.

Unfortunately, the Bay County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that all three swimmers died at local hospitals.

“It is with deep sadness that we announce that all three young men who entered the water and became distressed around 8 p.m. today have passed away. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families,” said Sheriff Ford. “I would like to thank Bay County Emergency Services, FWC and Coast Guard for their assistance in the rescue efforts.”

According to authorities, all three men arrived in Panama City Beach on Friday afternoon; they are all from Alabama.