Efforts to locate 27-year-old Drake Sweet, who went missing while spearfishing off the coast of Naples, Florida, on March 13, 2025, continue as authorities intensify search and rescue operations. His disappearance has prompted an extensive coordinated effort involving the U.S. Coast Guard, local law enforcement agencies, private boaters, and community volunteers. The discovery of his speargun and weight belt on the ocean floor has fueled speculation that he may have deliberately discarded his equipment to conserve energy and stay afloat, reinforcing hopes that he is still alive and awaiting rescue. Search teams have been meticulously scouring the Gulf of Mexico, employing advanced tracking methods, aerial surveillance, and navigational tools to enhance the likelihood of finding him.
Sweet was last seen engaging in freediving activities from a 21-foot vessel named Soggy Foot before he failed to resurface. As an experienced diver and an exceptionally strong swimmer, those close to him believe he possesses the physical endurance and survival instincts necessary to withstand the challenges of the open water. His sister, Sofia Sweet, has taken to social media to rally support, urging boat owners, pilots, and members of the boating community to assist in the search. The appeal has gained significant traction, with an outpouring of support from residents along Florida’s Gulf Coast, as well as national and international online communities. Many have volunteered their boats, drones, and other resources to aid in systematically covering the designated search grid.
The ongoing search is being carried out with strategic precision, taking into account various environmental factors that could impact Sweet’s whereabouts. The Gulf’s water temperature in March typically ranges between 68-74°F (20-23°C), which, while not critically cold, presents a risk of hypothermia with prolonged exposure. Additionally, ocean currents and drift patterns are being carefully analyzed to predict how far he may have traveled since he was last seen. Given the unpredictability of open water conditions, authorities are using satellite data and maritime tracking software to refine their search parameters.
Aircraft involved in the operation have been instructed to maintain a minimum altitude of 250 feet while scanning the area to ensure maximum visibility. Rescue teams have also urged boaters in the vicinity to remain vigilant for any floating debris, dive markers, or personal belongings that could serve as indicators of Sweet’s location. While marine wildlife is not considered an immediate threat, experts acknowledge that the presence of strong currents and fluctuating tides could pose significant challenges for someone stranded in the water for an extended period.
The U.S. Coast Guard has reaffirmed its commitment to exhausting all available resources in the search, with officials emphasizing the urgency of the situation. In an official statement, a spokesperson highlighted the critical role that community engagement plays in rescue operations, urging anyone with information or access to watercraft to assist in any way possible. Local law enforcement and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) have also mobilized efforts, coordinating closely with federal agencies and volunteer groups to optimize search coverage.
As updates continue to circulate, the public is being asked to contribute to the search in any way they can. Those with boats, access to aircraft, or experience in ocean navigation are particularly encouraged to join the search effort. Additionally, spreading awareness through social media and sharing real-time updates can significantly increase the chances of a successful recovery. Individuals who spot anything unusual in the water are advised to report their findings to the U.S. Coast Guard at (727) 824-7506 or call 911 in case of an emergency.
Despite the passing hours, hope remains strong within the community, with many believing that Sweet’s resilience and survival skills will allow him to endure the conditions until help arrives. His disappearance has brought together an extraordinary network of support, demonstrating the power of collective action in times of crisis. As search teams continue working tirelessly, the focus remains on bringing Sweet home safely, with the unwavering determination of family, friends, and rescuers fueling the ongoing mission.
