- December 28, 2024
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Deputy 1st Class Spinelli and Marine Unit Deputy Turner. Courtesy photo
Photos courtesy of Flagler County Fire Flight
Courtesy photo
Photos courtesy of Flagler County Fire Flight
Photos courtesy of Flagler County Fire Flight
Photos courtesy of Flagler County Fire Flight
Screen capture of the body cam as Jeffrey Browning was brought to the rescue boat.
Screen capture of the body cam as Jeffrey Browning was brought to the rescue boat.
Jeffrey Browning, as he exits the rescue boat.
The rescue boat approaches the dock.
A neighbor was concerned. He called the Flagler County Sheriff's Office. As a result, a rescue was set in motion, and 62-year-old kayaker Jeffrey Browning was rescued.
The neighbor later told FCSO that at approximately 4:30 p.m. June 11 he saw his neighbor, 62-year-old Jeffrey Browning, get into a kayak and head north in the canal, near Osprey Lane in Flagler Beach. The reporting person told deputies that he was concerned because it was now after 9 p.m. and Browning had still not returned, so he called for help.
Deputies were able to contact Browning's sister, who told deputies that she received a text message from him at 5 p.m. saying that he was in the kayak and enjoying the “beautiful views.” Browning's sister asked him to text her when he was home but never received a response. Additionally, she told deputies that she believed the kayak was a new purchase and that Browning had limited experience with watercraft.
Due to Browning appearing to be in immediate danger and exigent circumstances existing, his cell phone was pinged, and a search team was assembled.
With the combined efforts of FCSO, Florida Fish and Wildlife, Flagler County FireFlight, Volusia County Sheriff’s Office AirOne helicopter and Seminole County’s ALERT helicopter, Browning was located after a nine-hour search. However, due to the terrain, deputies had difficulty reaching him. The FCSO Marine Unit utilized the airboat, along with Flagler Beach Fire Department responding with their jet ski. Browning was able to be brought to shore just before 8 a.m.
“This is another great example of see something say something in action,” Sheriff Rick Staly said. “This neighbor did a great job looking out for Jeffrey and calling us when he thought there might be a problem. Thanks to the outstanding relationships we have with other agencies and the team effort, we brought Jeffrey home safely. This is also a good reminder to always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back so if you have a problem or get lost we know where to start searching.”
View video of the rescue here: https://youtu.be/VEGbGzcmuu4
Browning was located in good health and with no injuries. He was transported to the hospital as a precaution.
Report suspicious activity to the FCSO by calling 386-313-4911. In an emergency, call 9-1-1.
