A Florida man has been charged with attempted first-degree murder after allegedly attacking his wife during a fishing trip more than 30 miles off the coast. Authorities say 60-year-old Douglas Naeher became violent and tried to kill his wife after getting angry over a snapped fishing line.
The Incident Took Place Far From Shore
According to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, the couple set off around 7 a.m. on July 20 from their home in Holmes Beach, Florida, for what was supposed to be a peaceful Sunday morning fishing trip. They were on Naeher’s 30-foot Sterling center console boat.
Naeher’s wife, who has not been named, told police that her husband was acting strangely during the trip. She said he seemed angry and wasn’t talking much. Once they reached their destination, about 33 miles off Bean Point, Naeher began fishing but became furious when his line snapped.
To avoid an argument, the woman got into the water with a pool noodle, holding onto a rope tied to the boat. That’s when things took a dangerous turn.
He Allegedly Untied the Boat and Drove Away
The victim told police that Naeher untied the rope she was holding and started moving the boat, leaving her floating alone in the ocean. She believed he only came back when he noticed another boat nearby and didn’t want to be seen leaving her behind.
When she climbed back onto the boat, Naeher allegedly punched her repeatedly, stomped on her head, and even tried to drown her by dragging her into the water and choking her.
“I’m Going to Kill You,” He Allegedly Said
According to the arrest affidavit, Naeher yelled “I’m going to f—ing kill you!” while trying to strangle his wife in the water. She told police she pretended to be dead and slowed her breathing to survive.
Even after she got back on the boat, Naeher allegedly pushed her overboard again. She managed to wrap her foot around a rope hanging from the boat, holding on as he tried to drive away.
She Escaped After Multiple Attempts to Reboard
In a desperate attempt to survive, the woman climbed back onto the boat a third time, this time just before reaching the dock. She jumped off the boat and ran for help before Naeher could attack her again.
Police say she suffered a concussion and multiple injuries across her body. Naeher was arrested and is currently being held without bail.
This shocking case shows how a routine fishing trip turned into a violent and life-threatening situation for one woman. Thanks to her courage, presence of mind, and refusal to give up, she survived the attack. Douglas Naeher is now facing serious charges, and legal proceedings are ongoing. The case serves as a powerful reminder about the dangers of domestic violence, even in the most unexpected places.
