Body Of Missing Diver Found In Sarasota

SARASOTA, FL — The body of a missing diver was located Wednesday morning in Sarasota west of the New Pass Bridge.

Lt. Robert Armstrong of the Sarasota Police Department identified the diver as 56-year-old Hieu Chi Trinh of Manatee County.

The diver was discovered after several hours of searching, according to Armstrong.

"The male was an experienced diver and was believed to be diving alone under the New Pass Bridge for stone crab claws," Armstrong said.

Police initially were called shortly before 7 a.m. Wednesday to look for the diver near the New Pass Bridge.

"It was determined that an adult male had been reported missing from Manatee County and the family of the missing male located his vehicle at the New Pass Bait Shop," Armstrong explained.

The Sarasota Police Department deployed its Underwater Search and Rescue Team with two boats and multiple divers.

Other agencies that assisted with the search included the Longboat Key Police Department, Venice Police Department, Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, Coast Guard and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

"Sarasota Police Detectives are investigating this incident and the Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the cause of death," Armstrong said. "Detectives are also working with the family through our victim advocates."

To report a tip, call Detective Maria Llovio at 941-263-6836.