Man dead, woman and dogs treated after generator fumes fill boat cabin in Palmetto

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A man died and a woman, along with two dogs, were treated after the cabin of a boat that was moored on the Manatee River was “overcome with fumes” from a generator while they were sleeping, according to the Palmetto Police Department.

A 35-year-old woman called police Thursday afternoon and said she woke up and found her husband unresponsive, police said. She also said she was unable to stand up.

First responders found the woman conscious but “unsteady on her feet,” and the two dogs were lethargic. There were no signs of foul play or any injuries.

A small generator was found next to the air conditioner on the boat, which was moored west of the Green Bridge and Safe Harbor Marina, police said. First responders said the cabin was filled with odor from the exhaust.

The man who died was identified as Enoch Forte, 46, according to police.

The woman and her dogs are expected to be OK. The investigation is ongoing.

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