In the U.S., an estimated 3,500 to 4,000 people drown each year, averaging 10 fatal drownings per day. Living in a community which is surrounded by water means local residents must stay aware of the dangers. Unfortunately we have lost a local resident of Orange Beach to such an incident.

An Orange Beach man drowned in south Alabama Sunday afternoon, according to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. Dewayne Stephens, 55, of Orange Beach, was identified as the man who lost his life.

Authorities said Stephens jumped into the water in Wolf Bay from a 2023 Bentley Legacy 200 Cruise pontoon boat at about 3:47 p.m. His body was recovered Sunday night around 10:00 p.m. 

Orange Beach Marine Patrol, Gulf Shores Marine Patrol, ALEA, Daphne Search and Rescue, in addition to private boaters were involved in the recovery effort.

The incident happened in Wolf Bay near Sapling Point within Baldwin County.

To help prevent drowning while boating, always wear a life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) and ensure others on the boat do the same. Boating sober, taking a boating safety course, and being aware of weather and water conditions are also crucial.