Deputies set out to rescue a teen after his friend "frantically" explained that he had fallen off somewhere in Tampa Bay.
The rescue happened just after 7 p.m. Saturday near Fantasy Island in Tampa, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office.
Although the 17-year-old's friend alerted law enforcement, he told deputies that he had "no idea where or when his friend fell off."
"The Marine Unit quickly followed the teen, backtracking his route on the water. With assistance from teamHCSO's Aviation Unit, deputies were able to locate the passenger in the water. The teen climbed aboard the vessel with no injuries to report," the sheriff's office explained.
The Marine Unit took the teenager to Davis Island following the rescue.
"This was such a frightening situation," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "This is a high-traffic boating area, making it especially hazardous. I'm so glad these teens wore life vests because this could've ended tragically. I commend our deputies for acting so quickly."
