The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the recovery of 49-year-old Dr. Ziad Abdeen’s body from the Intracoastal Waterway near Dunedin, Florida, on Sunday concluding a multi-day search that began after he went missing last Friday, February 23, 2024.
Abdeen, a respected Florida doctor with a known passion for paddleboarding, had set out for an outing and failed to return, prompting concerns for his safety.
Reported missing by family members to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, his disappearance initiated an extensive search. His vehicle was located at the Dunedin Boat Club’s parking lot, which was identified as his launching point for the paddleboarding trip.
Further investigation led to the discovery of his paddleboard under a dock at 2685 St. Joseph’s Drive in Dunedin, providing crucial clues to his last known whereabouts.
The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit, Dive Team, Flight Unit, and other agencies coordinated the search operation. Despite exhaustive efforts, the Coast Guard suspended its search on Saturday, February 24, with the Sheriff’s Office taking the lead to continue the search into Sunday.
He was last seen on Friday, between 11 a.m. and noon, navigating an inflatable blue and white paddleboard.
A concerning message from Abdeen to a coworker indicated he was stranded on an island, planning to return by 1:30 p.m., marking the last communication received before a 911 call reported his paddleboard ashore around 3 p.m.
Ken Holder, the director of communications and community engagement at HCA Florida Bayonet Hospital, where Dr. Abdeen was employed, conveyed his condolences in a statement provided to the local media.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Dr. Ziad Abdeen on behalf of the entire team at HCA Florida Bayonet Hospital,” Holder expressed. “During these challenging times, please be assured that our thoughts are with them, not only today but also in the days, weeks, and months ahead.”
Holder also stated, “We will offer on-site resources over the next several days to support colleagues and friends who knew Dr. Abdeen, ensuring they have access to the necessary care.”
Authorities have confirmed that Dr. Abdeen’s next of kin have been informed, and a comprehensive investigation, including an autopsy by the medical examiner, is underway to ascertain the cause of his passing.