Body of missing Pompano Beach man found after two canoes capsize on Banana River

Last updated on December 25, 2021

Florida Today – Dive team members recovered the body of a Pompano Beach man Tuesday afternoon from the Banana River after he went missing after two canoes capsized, triggering a search effort.

The 34-year-old man was identified as Alain Charles, said Chad Weber, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission spokesperson. FWC divers recovered his body about 1:30 p.m.

“The FWC extends its condolences to Mr. Charles’ family and friends during this difficult time. This is an ongoing investigation and we will release additional details when available,” Weber said via email.

Seven people went into the water when the canoes capsized Sunday night about ½ mile north of State Road 528, the FWC reported.

#BREAKING: #USCG, partner agencies are searching for a missing person who entered the water in the Banana River after two canoes capsized. Five people were recovered by a good Samaritan, one man swam to shore and one man is still missing. #PortCanaveral pic.twitter.com/MgD36A6bql

— USCGSoutheast (@USCGSoutheast) December 13, 2021

A good Samaritan rescued five people, and another man swam to shore, the U.S. Coast Guard reported.

Coast Guard officials suspended their search for the missing man at 8:11 p.m. Monday, said David Micallef, public affairs specialist.

“We had boats from Station Port Canaveral. We had a Coast Guard Auxiliary fixed-wing (aircraft). The Brevard County Sheriff’s Office was out there,” Micallef said.

The FWC, which is handling the boating accident investigation, continued the search for the missing boater.