A Canadian man tragically died after being found unconscious while indulging in the perilous but popular act of spearfishing near Key West, officials have confirmed. Pieter Lodewikus Botha, a 28-year-old from Alberta, was diving with companions off the coast when the incident occurred Tuesday afternoon.

Botha was found by his group lying unresponsive on the ocean's bottom near Western Dry Rocks, a location known for its vibrant sea life and clear waters. Attempts were made to quickly bring him to shore where paramedics were waiting; unfortunately, not fast enough to save Botha's life. According to information obtained by NBC Miami, he was rushed to Opal Key West Resort & Marina and was later pronounced dead at Lower Keys Medical Center.

The cause of death is still under investigation, but authorities have preliminarily ruled out foul play as a contributing factor. Monroe County Sheriff’s spokesperson Adam Linhardt told Local 10, “Foul play is not believed to be a factor in the incident.” The community waits as autopsy results are to soon provide closure on the exact cause behind the tragic turn of events that led to Botha's untimely demise.