Florida Father Drowns While Attempting to Rescue Seagull
A 31-year-old father of two drowned in the Florida Panhandle after swimming out to free a seagull entangled in his fishing line and being swept away by an ocean current.
Stone Romberg, 31, of the Florida Panhandle, died Sunday after encountering a dangerous ocean current while attempting to rescue a seagull. Romberg had been fishing when he noticed the bird caught in his line and swam out to help.
While trying to free the seagull, Romberg became snagged on the fishing line himself. As he attempted to return to shore, an ocean current carried him further out to sea, where he drowned. He was a father to two young daughters.
A GoFundMe campaign established for his family noted that Romberg was known for his kindness and willingness to help others. He worked as the manager of chair services at a local condominium complex and was a familiar face to many owners and guests. His workplace shared on Facebook that he would be remembered for his "kind heart, hard work, and willingness to always lend a hand."
The GoFundMe had raised over $138,000 as of Thursday afternoon to support his family, who reportedly relied on him for financial assistance. Romberg is survived by his wife, Taylor, and their two daughters, aged one and three.
An avid fan of SEC football and the Atlanta Braves, Romberg's death has left his community in mourning.