Tampa Republic

TAMPA - The Tampa Police Department is currently conducting a search for a missing boat captain at the 2600 block of Causeway Blvd. Early this morning, multiple reports came in regarding a shrimp boat that had submerged underwater. The vessel, named "Miss Jordi," is a 63 ft boat that was found underwater, leaking thousands of gallons of diesel fuel into the water.

The captain of the boat, Curtis Lee Cowling, was last seen on December 16, 2023, at 11:00 p.m. Due to his disappearance and the hazardous situation caused by the leaking fuel, Cowling is now listed as "Missing and Endangered." The Tampa Police Department is urging anyone with information regarding Curtis Lee Cowling to contact them at 813-231-6130.

The incident is currently being treated as a HAZMAT scene, as the diesel fuel contamination in the water poses a significant risk. This has prevented dive teams from entering the water to search for the missing captain. Taking the lead in the HAZMAT efforts is the United States Coast Guard, who are working alongside the Tampa Police Department and the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office to resolve the situation as quickly as possible.

Investigations are still ongoing, and the Tampa Police Department's Public Information Office will release any further information as it becomes available. While it is believed that Cowling lives on the boat full-time, it remains unknown if he was aboard when the vessel submerged.

The Tampa Police Department is committed to resolving this matter and ensuring the safety of the community. Officer Stefon Filer of the Tampa Police Department stated, "We are doing everything we can to locate Curtis Lee Cowling and bring him back safely. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time."

The Tampa Police Department encourages anyone with information regarding this incident to come forward and assist in the investigation. The authorities are determined to find answers and provide closure to all those affected by this distressing situation.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.tampa.gov/news/2023-12/tampa-police-searching-missing-boat-captain-2600-block-causeway-blvd-133351