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Tragic details emerge after Florida dad, 31, loses life trying to save a seagull
A Florida-based dad and beach service manager tragically died while selflessly trying to save a seagull that he accidentally injured while fishing.
William 'Stone' Romberg, who has since been described as a “wonderful husband and father,” was fishing with friends in Phillips Inlet in Panama City Beach, Florida, when disaster struck.
On Sunday, October 25, Romberg's cast accidentally caught a seagull, causing it to get tangled and distressed in his line.
A heroic act led to the death of a selfless father
According to his employer and a GoFundMe 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."
Being the compassionate man he was, Romberg, known as Stone to his loved ones, swam out to where the trapped bird was caught. However, his hand got caught on the bird and the hook as he tried to untangle it.
The injured father of two attempted to swim back to shore, but the current swept him further away, and he drowned shortly after.
Romberg is survived by his wife Taylor and their two young daughters, aged one and three. Heartbreakingly, the family celebrated their youngest daughter's first birthday just two weeks before the tragic accident.
According to GoFundMe: "This fundraiser is for Stone’s wife, Taylor, and their two precious little girls, ages 1 and 3, as they face the unimaginable loss of their husband and daddy.
"We also hold Stone’s family close in our hearts as they mourn their beloved son, brother, and so much more.
"The funds raised will help Taylor and the girls financially during this devastating loss, including easing the burden of hospital bills and funeral expenses."
The whole community has paid tribute to Romberg
The water sports equipment rental company Romberg worked for, La Dolce Vita, spoke very highly of the late father, writing on a fundraising page: "His kindness left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him, and he will be deeply missed."
Romberg's death has rocked the tight-knit coastal community he lived in as he was well known by many residents.
In tribute, the Carillon Beach Association wrote on Facebook: “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.”
Panama City Beach cafe, the Salty Bottle & Brew, wrote on Instagram: “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."