On Thursday, March 14, 2025, Drake Sweet, an experienced free diver with ties to St. Petersburg, Florida, went missing while spearfishing off the coast of Naples. Despite extensive efforts to locate him, including a large-scale search by the U.S. Coast Guard and other agencies, no trace of Drake has been found, aside from his speargun and weight belt, which were recovered on the floor of the Gulf. After an exhaustive 24-hour search operation, the U.S. Coast Guard made the difficult decision to suspend the active search. However, Drake’s family and friends continue to hold out hope and remain determined to find him, keeping his story alive and urging for more information to surface.
Drake Sweet’s disappearance has sent shockwaves through his family, friends, and the diving community. Known for his passion for free diving and spearfishing, Drake had a reputation as an experienced and responsible diver. On the day of his disappearance, he was diving for a routine spearfishing trip, a hobby he had enjoyed for years. But when he failed to return to shore, concerns quickly grew. A search was launched almost immediately, and the U.S. Coast Guard, along with local law enforcement and volunteer search teams, mobilized in the hopes of finding him.
The search operation spanned hours, with multiple resources deployed, including boats, helicopters, and advanced sonar equipment. Crews combed through large areas of water off Naples, covering significant portions of the Gulf. Despite these comprehensive efforts, authorities were unable to locate any further trace of Drake. His speargun and weight belt were found on the ocean floor, but no additional evidence was recovered that could provide answers. After careful consideration of the circumstances and the extent of the search, the U.S. Coast Guard made the heartbreaking decision to suspend the active search.
Though the official search has ended, Drake’s loved ones have made it clear that their search for answers is far from over. They continue to spread awareness of his disappearance through social media, local networks, and community outreach, asking anyone who might have seen or heard anything to come forward. They are determined to keep Drake’s name in the public eye, making sure that his case remains a priority for both authorities and the public.
Drake’s family is not only relying on traditional search efforts but has also called on the local community, including the diving and boating communities, to stay vigilant. They are urging anyone who may have been in the area on March 14th to report any sightings or information that could help in locating Drake. With every passing day, the uncertainty surrounding his disappearance grows, but his family remains resolute in their search for him.
The support from the community has been overwhelming. Both the diving and fishing communities, in Florida and beyond, have rallied around Drake’s family, offering emotional support, prayers, and assistance in any way they can. Many have shared his story far and wide, using social media and other platforms to ensure his disappearance remains in the public consciousness. They have worked tirelessly to spread awareness and are committed to keeping the search going, despite the official efforts having been called off.
Independent search efforts are now underway as well, with volunteers from all over stepping up to assist in scouring the waters where Drake was last seen. The hope remains that new leads, clues, or information may emerge that could help solve this heartbreaking mystery. The passion and dedication of Drake’s loved ones and community members have created a network of support that continues to grow every day. While the official search may be over, these efforts highlight the resilience and determination of those who refuse to give up.
Drake’s family has made a heartfelt plea for anyone with relevant information to come forward. They are urging anyone who might have seen anything, no matter how small it may seem, to contact local authorities or the Coast Guard immediately. Every piece of information, no matter how insignificant it may appear, could be the key to finding Drake and understanding what happened to him.
The emotional toll on Drake’s family is immense. The uncertainty surrounding his disappearance has left them feeling lost and helpless, but they have not given up hope. They are determined to keep fighting for answers, knowing that the search for their loved one is far from over. They ask that Drake’s story continue to be shared widely, in hopes that someone, somewhere may have vital information that could lead to his discovery. They are holding on to the belief that, with enough time, effort, and support, they will eventually have answers and be able to bring Drake home.
As the days pass, the community’s resolve remains strong. The collective effort to find Drake and bring him back is a testament to the love and dedication of his family, friends, and everyone who has been touched by his story. The hope that Drake will return is not diminished by the challenges they face; rather, it continues to fuel their efforts and determination to find him.
Drake Sweet’s disappearance is a heartbreaking tragedy that has affected not only his family but also the community around him. The effort to locate him may have officially ended, but his story is far from over. With the continued support of the community, the dedication of his loved ones, and the ongoing search for information, the hope remains that answers will be found. Drake’s family holds on to the belief that he will be found, and they will never stop searching for him.
In the meantime, they continue to lean on each other, drawing strength from their memories of Drake, his vibrant spirit, and the kindness he brought into their lives. As they await news, they are united in their hope that Drake will come home and that, no matter how long it takes, they will find closure and peace. Until then, they will not give up, and neither will the community that continues to support them through this difficult journey.
The Sweet family asks that everyone keep Drake in their thoughts and prayers, and share his story as widely as possible. Together, they believe that they can bring Drake home and find the answers they so desperately need.
