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Authorities identified the two victims as 20-year-old Wilbert Rivera Cifuentes and 21-year-old Deyfri Roblero Morales.
PALATKA, Fla. — The bodies of two men have been located Tuesday morning after multiple agencies searched the St. Johns River following reports of people falling into the river while shrimping Monday, the Palatka Police Department announced.
Authorities identified the two men as 20-year-old Wilbert Rivera Cifuentes and 21-year-old Deyfri Roblero Morales.
Police said officers responded Monday evening to the St. Johns River after a call reporting a possible drowning.
Investigators said Monday evening, a group of “five to six” men went into the water near the Palatka City Dock and Boat Ramp to retrieve an object. While in the water, two of the men, who reportedly were unable to swim, struggled before going under. Witnesses told police neither of the men resurfaced.
Authorities immediately initiated a search and recovery operation, and around 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, divers recovered the bodies of the two missing men.
“The Palatka Police Department extends its deepest condolences to the families affected by this tragedy,” officials said in a press release.
Members of the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Marine Units assisted in search and recovery efforts.
The Palatka Police Department is leading the investigation.