I know this post may be too much for some people, but I need an outlet to get it of my chest and mind. I apologize if this offends anyone, but I figured this group would be the most understanding of the experience.


Yesterday was a shocking day, I hit a city bayou and right when I got there I noticed something floating on the opposite side of the bank, it looked kind of like a pillow or trash bag, with some styrofoam cups behind it. Or at least that's what I was hoping. As it floated closer reality started to sink in. I wanted to be 100% sure that it was what I feared, a dead body. I film for YouTube so I had a camera drone with me. I sent the drone up and without a doubt it was what I feared. I call 911 and the first responder arrived within minutes. From the far bank it was still difficult to verify, so the police asked if I could send the drone back out for their confirmation before calling the search and rescue crews for a body recovery. It was VERY graphic footage to look at, but I had to, to control the drone. I won't go in to details, but the body was already in a state of decomposing. But it was difficult to look at to say the least.

I hope that they are able to identify the person and give the family some closure, and I'm glad that some young kid or family passing by didn't have to discover it.

A rough day on the water for sure, not one that I will forget anytime soon.

Man, that's a terrible situation to be in. His people will be glad you discovered him/her and coordinated the recovery.

I was a member of the rescue squad on a busy local DFW lake for 8 years or so towards the end of my career as a first responder. We were exposed a lot to things that your mind will never forget as well as my complete 30 year career in very busy fire stations.

If you need someone to "vent to" reach out, I have been there and done that many times

The best line I have ever heard is. “I wish my mind could forget what my eyes have seen” a quote by Detroit Fire Department Engineer Dave Parnell. That is the so the truth.

Again if you need anything feel free to contact me here by PM.

Had a Fire Chief once tell me “ you didn’t put them in there, just have to get them out”

This forum is here in part to help fishermen with difficult situations. You done good on this, even though it surely was gut wrenching for you.

Feel free to get in touch with me if you need to vent about this.

I understand what your feeling. Dozen years or so ago, maybe little less maybe little more, buddy and I found 3 bodies on Sabine Lake after an aluminum boat with 5 people on it went out in entirely to rough of water. They only made it a few hundred yards before swamping.

Great advice. You have to look at it as you brought closure to whoever you found as well as the family. Sad to see it end that way for anyone.

Tough situation. It is good you were able to help. Life is precious and we all have limited time. We don’t know the situation behind this death, but there are many recreational deaths that occur every year. Always keep safety on mind.

You did the right thing. Kudos.

Thanks everyone, it’s been a real mind trip. It’s not something I wanted to open up to my family about and I knew this group would understand. I have a new respect for all the first responders and rescue crews. I can’t imagine what they see on a daily basis. These comments mean more than most would think. Thank you all so much.

Trying to move forward, but the images in my mind are haunting

Take care of yourself and surround yourself with family and friends

Sorry you had to see this, but somewhere there is a family that is very thankful for what you did. Like others have said, reach out to friends if this becomes a bigger issue for you. At times like this, I would think most everyone on here is willing to talk, me included.
I have been in on several drowning searches and recoveries when I was younger and it never got easier. Some are worse than others, especially when there is family watching what the search and recovery are doing. Luckily I have never had the experience that you did. Thanks again for bringing closure for their family.

Could not have said this any better!


Side Note: Everything happens for a reason. Praying for the victims family. The Lord Jesus Christ has control!

Thank you for doing your part when so many just turn and hide these days. Not something any of want to have to see. I pray recovery for you.