Marine Deputies Remove Hazardous Debris from Manatee River Near DeSoto Bridge

Marine deputies responded Friday morning to reports of a large debris field in the Manatee River near the DeSoto Bridge, removing a significant amount of floating material that posed a serious hazard to boaters.

Deputies safely cleared the debris from the water to reduce the risk to vessels navigating the area. Authorities said the source of the debris has not yet been determined.

The investigation is ongoing, with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office coordinating efforts with the Palmetto Police Department to determine where the debris originated and whether additional cleanup may be necessary.

Officials are reminding boaters to remain vigilant while on the water, as floating debris can create dangerous conditions, particularly in busy waterways. Anyone who spots hazardous debris is encouraged to report it immediately so it can be removed as quickly as possible, helping keep local waterways safe for everyone.