Man Who Went Missing During Tropical Storm Debby Found Dead on Submerged Boat, But His Dog Survived

Mar. 15, 2025

Brian J. Clough and his dog Daisy.Photo:Gulfport Police Department

Brian and dog Daisy

Gulfport Police Department

According to apress releasefrom the Gulfport Police Department, boater Brian J. Clough, 48, anchored his sailboat approximately 50 feet from Gulfport’s Veterans Park while riding out the storm with his dog Daisy.

Members of the local boating community noticed on Monday, Aug. 5, that a portion of the boat had submerged underwater, and Clough was nowhere to be found.

Brian J. Clough and his dog Daisy.Gulfport Police Department

Brian and dog Daisy

After the Gulfport Police Department was notified of Clough’s disappearance, they were able to recover a deceased body from the boat later in the afternoon, the press release said.

High winds, rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby inundate a neighborhood on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Florida

Joe Raedle/Getty

“This is an active, ongoing investigation; however, the preliminary investigation does not indicate any foul play is involved in this person’s death,” said the Gulfport Police Department.

AGoFundMehas been set up to help pay for Clough’s funeral expenses and celebration of life ceremony, as well as Daisy’s future vet expenses.

“Brian tragically lost his life after being stuck in his sinking boat while the storm came in. Everyone who knew Brian loved him for his fun personality, quick wit, entrepreneurial spirit, and of course his deep love for Daisy,” the campaign states.

As of this writing, the campaign has raised over $2,800 of its $5,000 goal.

High winds, rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby inundate a neighborhood on August 05, 2024, in Cedar Key, Florida. Hurricane Debby brings rain storms and high winds along Florida

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source: people.com