On Sunday morning, June 22, emergency crews from the Venice Police Department and Venice Fire Rescue responded to a call at 6:52 a.m. regarding a submerged vehicle in the Cow Pen Slough Canal near Ranch Road and Rustic Road.
Upon arrival, officers and rescue personnel found a red Ford Ranger upside down in the water near a bridge. Initial rescue efforts were launched, but Venice Fire Rescue swimmers were pulled from the canal due to environmental hazards, including leaking vehicle fluids and the presence of alligators. A dive team was then called in.
Investigators believe the truck was traveling westbound on Rustic Road at a high rate of speed when it veered off the roadway, struck a Florida Power & Light utility pole, and overturned into the canal.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) removed two large alligators from the area before Venice divers, with assistance from the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Special Operations unit, were able to conduct a full assessment of the vehicle. One deceased male was found inside.
A specialty commercial tow truck and the District 12 Medical Examiner’s Office responded to the scene. Venice divers assisted in lifting the truck from the water. The driver was identified as 19-year-old Fredy Chavez Sanchez. His next of kin has been notified.
The investigation remains ongoing.