Body of missing swimmer found

Published 9:45 am Friday, May 5, 2017

The body of a Georgia man swept away by the Gulf of Mexico waters was discovered Wednesday night, bringing a days-long search to an end.

Bruce Maynor Jr., 29, was discovered just a few feet off the beach, toward the west end of St. George Island near 12th Street, according to Franklin County, Florida, Sheriff A.J. Smith.

Smith said the body was discovered between 7:30-8 p.m.

The body has been transported to the medical examiner’s office in Tallahassee, Florida, which Smith said is standard procedure.

Maynor’s family was provided rooms free of charge at a local hotel until the search concluded.

Smith said the family returned back to Georgia on Thursday morning.

Noting closure for the family, Smith said the incident was sad, but “thankful we have a conclusion.”

Maynor was part of a family outing on St. George Island when a member of the party began to struggle in the surf. Mayor went to rescue the 12-year-old boy and handed him off to another person before succumbing to the undertow.

The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office posted on its Facebook page Maynor’s body was discovered, also referring to him as a hero.

“The Franklin County Sheriffs Office wishes to thank all the first responders and volunteers who assisted in the search,” the Facebook post stated. “Our hearts are heavy but thankful the search is over. Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers.”

Reporter Jordan Barela can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1826.

Editor Pat Donahue can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1806.