Kentucky diver dies in cave, 4th death there since 1990

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

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James Woodall died under these waters on Tuesday.

HERNANDO COUNTY (Bay News 9) -- A Kentucky man died Tuesday while diving into a popular underwater cave in Hernando County.

James Woodall, 39, had problems with his breathing equipment while diving about 1:30 p.m.

His friend, Gregory Snowden, made it out of the cave safely, but it took him a few hours later because of the time needed for decompression.

Woodall's body was recovered shortly after midnight.

The cave, which is known as Eagle's Nest, attracts cave divers from all around the world.

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Diane Oestreich, who is an experienced cave diver, said divers love the cave because of its size and depth.

"It's incredibly, incredibly big, and when it's clear, it is beautiful," she said. "It's almost like going into the St. Pete Forum, in the main room, just the first room."

Florida Fish and Wildlife officials say four divers have died in the cave since 1990.

This underwater sign at the entrance of the cavern warns would-be divers.

A sign outside of the cave warns would-be cave divers of the danger, and warns them to stay out of the water unless they are certified cave divers.

Investigators said neither Woodall nor Snowden were certified.

Victor Echaves, a spokesman for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said the cave is open to the public, and even though they have posted signs, it is up to the divers to know their limits and keep themselves safe.

"If you're not certified to do these types of dives, this is not for you," he said.

Experienced cave diver Marvin Gozum said he would never do such a dive without his specialized equipment. As part of his certification, he was trained to repair that equipment underwater.

"That's correct, plus we have our buddy who is trained to respond as a back-up for anything that may go wrong that I can't fix," Gozum said.

Other deaths at Eagle's Nest

- June 2004: Craig Simon, 44, and John Robinson, 36, drowned in the cave system. They were both experienced, certified divers.

- August 1990: Brent Potts, 29, died in the cave. He was a diving instructor.

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