Marco Island – A routine rescue on the waters of Marco Island turned chaotic when a boater allegedly stole a rescue boat after pushing the captain overboard, authorities reported.
The Collier County Sheriff’s Office identified the suspect as Ryan Deiter, 40. The incident began Friday night when a Sea Tow crew responded to a boat fire involving Deiter. While waiting for law enforcement, investigators say Deiter shoved the Sea Tow captain into the water and commandeered the vessel.
Local residents expressed shock. “Boating etiquette is always fabulous around here. People help each other all the time, and you don’t ever expect something like that to happen,” said William Cook, a neighbor.
Deiter was later spotted hiding in the mangroves by a Collier County Sheriff’s Office helicopter and arrested. Authorities reported he was naked at the time and showed signs of impairment.
The arrest report noted that Deiter had two prior DUI convictions in the last two years. He now faces charges including first-degree felony theft for the vessel, DUI, and resisting arrest without violence.
Boaters on Marco Island expressed relief that the incident did not result in injury. Sea Tow is expected to release an official statement regarding the event.
