CORTEZ — The Coast Guard and others are scouring the waters near Mead Point, just inland from Anna Maria Island, for a 63-year-old boater who has been missing since Friday evening.
Fraser Horne of Cortez left Egmont Key on his 30-foot boat, Golden Rush, and did not return home on time. His wife reported his absence to Coast Guard officials. Horne's boat — and his 90-pound golden retriever named Two — have been found. A good Samaritan found Two alive in the Fort De Soto area about 8:30 p.m. Friday.
The helicopter team found his boat at 11:15 p.m. Friday about 5 miles northwest of Mead Point.
A rescue swimmer was lowered down. He found that the boat's engine was still running, but the boat was in neutral. Horne's wallet, keys and shoes were on board.
Boaters are asked to keep a lookout. Call Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg watchstanders at (727) 824-7506 with any information.