Diane Boone, 72, a longtime Winn-Dixie cashier, died after her SUV left the road and overturned in a canal in Fort Myers on Dec. 15 at about 8 p.m. Authorities say a medical episode is not suspected, and family members believe she may have become disoriented while driving home. Neighbors reported the vehicle drifting before it left the road, and friends and coworkers remembered Boone for her warm smile and regular bingo nights. An official investigation is ongoing.
Beloved 72-Year-Old Winn-Dixie Cashier Dies After SUV Plunges Into Fort Myers Canal
GoogleMapsCaloosahatchee River in Florida.
A southwest Florida community is mourning after Diane Boone, 72, a longtime clerk at a local Winn-Dixie, died when her sport utility vehicle left the road and submerged in a canal in Fort Myers on Dec. 15.
The crash occurred at about 8 p.m. in the George Town neighborhood, where responders found Boone's SUV upside down in the water, local ABC affiliate WZVN and CBS affiliate WINK reported. Authorities have not announced a definitive cause, but officials told WZVN they do not suspect a medical episode.
Family, Neighbors Describe Confusion Before Crash
Family members told reporters they believe Boone may have become disoriented while driving home. Neighbors said they observed the vehicle drifting or weaving slightly along the roadway before it ran off the road, and suggested the canal may not have been visible in the dark.
"She was always smiling. If you ever needed someone to talk to, she was there," coworker Emily Rosario told WZVN, describing the shock among staff and regular shoppers at the Winn-Dixie where Boone worked.
Remembered By Coworkers And Local Bingo Community
Boone frequently attended bingo after her shifts. Paul McMurrain, manager of Uptown Bingo, told WINK that she often came straight from work in her uniform and was known for her friendly demeanor and ready smile.
Local authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the crash. The Fort Myers Police Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment from PEOPLE. Friends, family and community members have shared condolences as they await further information.
Note: Reports cited local television outlets WZVN and WINK and coverage in PEOPLE; official findings and the results of the investigation have not yet been released.
