Authorities and the community of Lee County, Florida, breathed a collective sigh of relief on December 21, 2025, after 17-year-old Peter Campanella was safely located following an intense search near Bunche Beach. Peter had gone missing while paddleboarding, prompting immediate action from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and local emergency response teams. The search began after Peter was reported missing while on a blue and white paddleboard, wearing a navy shirt and an orange backpack. As the hours passed with no sign of Peter, concerns grew among his family, friends, and the community, leading to an all-hands-on-deck effort to locate him.

The search mobilized boats, rescue teams, and aerial units as authorities combed the waters and surrounding areas for any trace of Peter. Social media posts, local news alerts, and word of mouth played a crucial role in spreading awareness and rallying the community to assist in the search efforts. The combined efforts of law enforcement, volunteers, and local residents ensured that the search was as thorough and efficient as possible. As the day passed, tensions rose, but the community remained united and hopeful that Peter would be found safe. After hours of uncertainty, authorities confirmed that Peter was located, unharmed, and safe, marking a joyful conclusion to the tense situation. The quick response and teamwork among all involved were crucial in his safe recovery.

Peter’s return has been met with immense relief and gratitude from his family and the local community, who celebrated the positive outcome of what could have been a tragic incident. The Lee County Sheriff’s Office thanked everyone who assisted in the search, underscoring the importance of community cooperation during emergencies. Authorities also took the opportunity to remind the public of the critical importance of water safety, especially for young people engaging in outdoor activities such as paddleboarding. They emphasized the need for safety measures such as wearing life jackets, staying close to shore, and ensuring that someone is aware of your whereabouts and plans before venturing out on the water. While the experience was undoubtedly frightening for those involved, Peter Campanella’s safe return is a testament to the power of community vigilance, rapid response, and the importance of safety precautions in safeguarding the well-being of our youth.