Death investigation underway for unresponsive kayaker found near Sanibel Causeway

SANIBEL, Fla.—The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, along with several law enforcement agencies, responded to an unresponsive kayaker found outside the Sanibel Causeway.

FWC, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Sanibel Police Department, U.S. Coast Guard, and Lee County EMS responded to the single-vessel incident on Wednesday.

According to FWC, the individual, identified as Mark Kocher, was found unresponsive in the water near an overturned kayak. Rescue crews located and transported Kocher to the Sanibel Boat Ramp, where emergency measures were taken to resuscitate him.

At 12:20 p.m., Kocher was transported to a nearby hospital, where he unfortunately died as a result of the incident. 

FWC states that this remains an active investigation, with its agency maintaining its lead.

WINK News anchor Gracie Fusco is on scene gathering more information about this incident and will provide updates as they become available.

 Stay tuned to WINKNews.com, WINK News App, streaming, and on air for any new developments on this story.