Indian Rocks Beach, Florida – Aidan Bowles, a 71-year-old Irish retiree, tragically lost his life over the weekend as Hurricane Helene swept through Florida.
The devastating storm, which caused widespread destruction, claimed Mr. Bowles’ life after he chose to remain in his one-storey cottage in Pinellas County, despite a mandatory evacuation order.
His body was discovered by a neighbor, John Comer, who found Mr. Bowles under a dresser, covered in muck, a day after the storm struck.
Authorities believe drowning was the cause of death.
Aidan Bowles had been a long-time visitor to Indian Rocks Beach since the 1980s and had made the area his permanent home about 15 years ago.
His son, Sam, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, expressing his grief, "I don’t even know what to say, today I not only lost my dad, I lost my superman."
Sam described his father as a man who made a lasting impact on everyone he met.
Condolences have poured in from friends and family across social media.
Mary Denieffe commented, "Rest in peace, sincere condolences to his family and friends."
Aidan Bowles’ death has left his family and the local community in mourning as they grapple with the loss of a beloved father and friend.