Tampa Stand Up Paddler Still Missing

 

TAMPA, Florida - On the last Saturday in April Jeffrey Comer, a 50 year old man who lived in the Harbor Island community of Tampa, Florida, set out for some stand up paddle time on the water.  Unfortunately he has not been seen or heard from since that time.

 

Jeffrey is someone considered to be in good shape.  He is an experienced stand up paddler and has also spent a great deal of time on the water kayaking.  Other sports he has participated in include football, track and field, cycling, scuba diving and rock climbing.  He graduated from the Air Force Academy in 83' and served his country for a period of time.  However, most recently he has been self employed and works on contracts for the government.

 

Unfortunately there is still no trace of Jeffrey himself, but his stand up paddleboard and belongings (including his phone, keys and wallet) which were on the board ended up being found close to the north entrance of the Manatee River and were turned in to local police.  Many hours have been spent searching for Jeffrey in an area from Egmont Key to Anna Maria Island which is about 600 square miles, but to no avail.

 

Many fellow stand up paddlers have expressed love and hope to Jeffrey and his family that all will turn out well.  Paddlers have also expressed a desire that those doing SUP and anyone on the water be reminded about safety and that they should take necessary precautions and preparations to help ensure a safe return off the water.  The sentiment being expressed by many is that although most paddle sessions turn out well, there are always unexpected situations that can occur and being educated and prepared will often help make a difference.

 

Hopefully Jeffrey Comer and his family will have a positive outcome.  Anyone with information should contact local authorities or the Coast Guard at 727-824-7506.

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