Florida Man Dies After Escaping Custody And Jumping Into Water While Handcuffed

A Florida man died in police custody after he fled an officer and jumped into a bay, while handcuffed.

Donnie Brownlow Jr., 33, was arrested and taken into custody after reports of a domestic disturbance in Treasure Island, near Tampa Bay. At the time, he was facing charges of domestic battery, obstruction, felony driving while license suspended or revoked, and violation of probation.

After his arrest, the man was taken to Treasure Island Police Department before he was to be transferred to another facility.

“Detectives say while being escorted to the transport van and in handcuffs, Brownlow broke free from the officer, ran toward Boca Ciega Bay and jumped into the water,” Pinellas County SHeriff’s Office said in a statement.

Emergency officials pulled Brownlow from the water and rendered first aid, but he eventually died at a local hospital.

Although his death does not appear to be suspicious, an autopsy has been scheduled, and an investigation is underway.

In the meantime, according to reports, this was not Brownlow’s first run-in with the cops. In fact, his history dated back to 2013, which included arrests for fleeing and eluding police, aggravated battery, child neglect, and more.