John Patti, missing Florida boater, found dead after saving his dog

Authorities reported Sunday that they have recovered the body of a missing boater from Lake Tarpon.

John P. Patti, 70, was reported missing on Saturday after 4 p.m. after leaping into the water to rescue his dog. Pinellas County Sheriff says the remains were located Sunday morning, around 8 a.m.

“The missing boater’s body was located at approximately 8:15 a.m. on Sunday, May 25, 2014. The missing boater and three others were boating on Lake Tarpon the afternoon of Saturday, May 24, 2014. Deputies responded to the scene and began searching at approximately 4:00 p.m. on Saturday,” the new statement says.

Searchers used helicopters, sonar and boats to look for Patti. Authorities temporarily called off the search late Saturday because of low visibility, but efforts resumed Sunday morning and Patti’s body was found.

Pinellas County Sheriff says “The missing boater was with three other people on a pontoon boat when their dog jumped into the water. The missing boater jumped into the water to save the dog and disappeared under water. The dog was returned safely to the boat.”

“It appears to be accidental,” sheriff’s office spokeswoman Cristen Rensel said. “It is still under investigation how everything happened and the timing of everything that happened.”

An autopsy has already been scheduled.

“Just remember that this is Memorial Day weekend, and it’s a very high boating weekend,” Rensel said. “A lot of people are going to be out on the beaches and in their boats and on the water. Everyone should use caution when they’re out there drinking and driving.”