Venice, FLA
According to a release in the city of Venice, the authorities were sent to the area of Ranch Road and Rustic Road at around 6:52 pm, after receiving the report of a vehicle overturning and partially submerged in the cow pen slaw canal.
The Venice Police Department and the Venice Fire Rescue Units arrived at the scene and immediately started a rescue effort. VFR rescue swimmers entered the water and located a person inside the overturned vehicle. However, dangerous environmental conditions – including the presence of automotive fluids and large crocodiles – to temporarily suspend the recovery of authorities. A dive team was called to continue the operation safely.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) officials quickly responded, removing two major crocodiles from the area to ensure safety of divers. Once the conditions were stabilized, the Venice Fire Rescue and the Sarsota County Sheriff Office proceeded to assess the divers of the special operations team of the office and to fix the body.
The vehicle, a Ford Ranger, was later removed from the water. After recovery, the office of the Sarsota County Medical Examiner recognized the deceased as 19, 19, Freddy Chavez Sanchhez.
Initial probes suggests that the truck may be traveling west on the rustic road at a fast pace, when it was out of the road, a utility collided with the pole, and flipped into the canal. The accident caused significant damage and overturned the vehicle and submerged.
A spokesman for the city of Venice said, “This is a deep heartbreaking incident.” “Our thoughts and prayers are with Freddy’s family and loved ones during this sad time.”
Officials have not yet released a details of whether high speed accidents may occur, and investigation is on.
As the Venice community comes with this devastating loss, many people have expressed their grief and condolences on social media. Friends described Freddy as kind, full of life, and someone who always smiled others.
Officers urge drivers, especially young motorists to take care of the rural roads and emphasize the importance of speed awareness, especially during night or morning time when visibility and road conditions can be more dangerous.
A memorial is expected to be held in honor of Freddy in the coming days. The Venice Police Department and Sarsota County Sheriff Office continue to investigate the accident.
Rest in Peace, Freddy Chavez Sanchez. Went very soon, but never forgot.