A hospitality manager in Florida drowned while trying to save a seagull he accidentally hooked while fishing. Friends and family described him as a “wonderful husband and father.”
William “Stone” Romberg was fishing at Phillips Inlet in Panama City Beach on Sunday when the incident occurred, as detailed by his employer and a GoFundMe campaign set up for his family.
“Stone tragically lost his life while fishing at the beach and attempting to help a bird caught in his fishing line. His kindness left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him, and he will be deeply missed,” stated La Dolce Vita, the beach service where Romberg worked as the Manager.
The 31-year-old, who was married with two daughters, was with friends near the Pinnacle Port Condominiums when he ventured out to help the bird.
As he attempted the rescue, Romberg got his hand entangled with the bird and the hook in his efforts to free it.
Though he tried to swim back to shore, the current carried him further away, and he ultimately drowned, according to fundraiser organizer Heidi Fortner.
Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, he leaves behind his wife, Taylor, and their two young daughters, aged one and three.
Just two weeks prior to the tragedy, the family had celebrated their youngest daughter’s first birthday.
Romberg was remembered as a dedicated father and husband, and many in the local community knew him well.
“Our Carillon Beach family is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Stone Romberg, a cherished member of our community whose passing has touched so many of our homeowners, staff, and beach service team,” the Carillon Beach HOA shared on Facebook.
Community members took to social media to express their sorrow over Romberg’s passing, highlighting his warm presence in the area.
“It is with a heavy heart that we mourn the loss of our beloved Carillon Beach local, Salty regular, and wonderful husband and father that Stone Romberg was. We hold Stone’s family close in our hearts as he was such a bright light in our community,” the Salty Bottle & Brew cafe posted on Instagram.
