Fort Myers Beach, Florida – Tragedy unfolded late Saturday night as Mike Dewitt, a resident of Syracuse, Indiana, was among two men found dead following a reported gas leak at a home on Fort Myers Beach. The incident took place on August 24 at approximately 9:30 p.m. at 433 Palermo Circle, prompting an extensive emergency response.
The Fort Myers Beach Fire Department, Iona McGregor Fire District, and Lee County EMS responded to the scene after receiving reports of a gas leak. Upon arrival, the bodies of Dewitt and another man were discovered inside the residence.
The Lee County Sheriff’s Office has initiated an investigation to ascertain whether the gas leak contributed to the deaths. As of now, authorities have not released the identities of the deceased or any further details about the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The news of the tragic deaths has sent shockwaves through the Fort Myers Beach community. Local residents are expressing heightened concerns over gas safety, prompting officials to remind the public about the importance of installing carbon monoxide detectors and regularly maintaining gas appliances to prevent such occurrences.
Comments on social media reflect the impact of the tragedy on those who knew Mike Dewitt. Bryan Finlinson expressed his sorrow, saying, "Sorry Hammbone, me and newcomer were talking about how good Dewitt was to us, will never forget how good. He sure got prob 350 years worth of living for sure!!" Another friend, Cindy Harper, shared her grief, stating, "I am heart broken also."
The Lee County Sheriff’s Office continues its investigation and has urged anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward. Further updates are expected as the authorities work to uncover the cause of the gas leak and the resulting fatalities.
The family of Mike Dewitt will release an obituary in due course.