Search Continues For Missing Swimmer Off Sand Key

by Jon Silman

The search for a swimmer who went missing Labor Day resumed Tuesday near Sand Key.

James Poindexter, 27, of New Port Richey, was swimming near the Clearwater Sailing Center when he started yelling for help around 2:15 p.m. Monday, according to Clearwater Fire and Rescue.

Clearwater Fire and Rescue, Clearwater Police Marine Unit, the Coast Guard and Pinellas County Sheriff’s Eagle helicopter searched around Clearwater Pass, near the Sand Key Bridge and surrounding areas.

Poindexter was swimming out by the south buoy, about 40 yards from shore, at Bayside Park, 951 Gulf Blvd. when his family saw he was in trouble. Poindexter called out for help. A family friend tried to but was unable to locate him.