Israel Boza Tragedy: Beloved 56-Year-Old Spearfisherman Killed by Boat in Florida Keys, Palmer Reid Long Identified as Driver.
Israel Boza, a 56-year-old man from Hialeah, was tragically killed last week while spearfishing off the Florida Keys. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission identified Boza as the victim of a boating accident, in which he was struck by a 32-foot Contender center console boat.
According to the FWC, Boza was spearfishing and snorkeling near a 23-foot-long Key Largo-brand center-console boat when the accident occurred. The driver of the boat, Palmer Reid Long, 72, from Placida, was reportedly unaware that he had hit anyone. Long’s attorney, Hal Schuhmacher, confirmed that his client was not aware of the collision.
The FWC is currently investigating the incident, and their report indicates that the boat Boza was on was displaying a dive flag, as required by law for snorkeling or scuba-diving from a vessel. Investigators have stated that alcohol is not believed to be a factor in the accident.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office initially issued a statement searching for the responsible boat, but later confirmed that the boat and driver had been found. The FWC is continuing to investigate the incident, and no charges have been filed at this time.
Israel Boza, known to friends and family as Kico, was a passionate spearfisherman who died pursuing his love of the sport. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help cover funeral expenses, and friends and family are coming together to remember and celebrate Boza’s life.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the community, with many calling for increased safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The FWC is urging boaters and water enthusiasts to exercise caution and follow all safety guidelines when engaging in water activities.
As the investigation continues, the community remains in mourning for the loss of Israel Boza. His legacy will live on through the impact he had on those around him, and his tragic passing will serve as a reminder of the importance of safety on the water.
In the end, Israel Boza’s tragic passing serves as a reminder of the importance of community and the need to come together in the face of adversity. His memory will live on, and his legacy will inspire others to pursue their passions with safety and caution.
The incident has raised questions about boating safety and the importance of vigilance on the water. The community is coming together to support the Boza family and to promote safety awareness in the wake of this tragedy.
Israel Boza’s life was cut short in a tragic accident, but his memory will live on through the impact he had on those around him. His legacy will inspire others to pursue their passions with safety and caution, and his tragic passing will not be forgotten.