Robert Safford: Toddler girl left orphaned as Marine single dad, 33, tragically dies in boating accident
THE BAHAMAS, CARIBBEAN: A 33-year-old single father from North Carolina, Robert Owen Safford, died in a boating accident in the British Virgin Islands. According to the Royal Virgin Islands Police, he was found unresponsive with head injuries on the night of March 22 near Great Harbour on Jost Van Dyke.
After unsuccessful attempts to revive Safford, who served in the Marine Corps, he was pronounced dead while the boat he was in was found floating in the area, reports AOL. Royal Virgin Islands Police commented via a Facebook post, "Investigations into this boating accident are ongoing therefore no other information is available at this time."
READ MORE
Michael Worley: 'Larger than life' dad of 2 dies days after choking on steak at family barbecue
What is 'circle of death'? Two men thrown off a boat caught in BIZARRE 'high speed' phenomenon
Who was Robert Safford?
Safford was a single dad to one daughter, named Isabella. His wife, Rachele, died of cancer on September 22, 2022, six months before his death. "Rob was a single dad, but not by choice,” said his friend Joey Butrico, who started a GoFundMe page for his daughter. He wrote, “We are looking to get as much support as possible to help Bellas's grandparents and family. Raising a child is not easy; hopefully, we can lessen the financial burden through this difficult time.” So far, he has raised $12,547 out of $15,000 goal.
‘One of the baddest dudes’
Following the news of his death, friends shared tributes for Safford. One of his friends, Juan Perez, wrote on Facebook, "Rob you were one of the baddest dudes I ever met. I would never admit that to your face, because there was this unspoken rivalry between us , but you were definitely one of the baddest motherf*ckers I’ve ever met." He added, "You always gave it your all, you loved being a Marine more than anything, and you deserved more and you went for more. I’m sorry that your life was cut short by a tragic accident.
However, I know that you lived more in your 33 years than most of us will in a lifetime. Rest easy brother. Thank you for always challenging me. You always won in our unspoken rivalry. Love you brother." Another wrote, "We lost another great one way to soon in a tragic boat accident while on vacation. You will forever be in our hearts Rob Safford." While one requested, "A good friend was lost. Let's help support his family." As per AOL, for 10 years, he helped in raising his 16-year-old stepson.
This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.
