Catholic Central School senior drowns off Cocoa Beach

Danielle Marceline, a 17-year-old senior at Catholic Central School in Latham, tragically drowned on Dec. 3 off Cocoa Beach.

“It is with immense sorrow that we confirm the death of Danielle Marceline this past weekend in Cocoa Beach, Fla. Dani was a senior at Catholic Central School in Latham, cherished friend, and varsity volleyball teammate,” said Giovanni Virgiglio, Superintendent of Schools, Albany Diocesan School Board, in a statement on Dec. 5. “Undoubtedly, this is a tragedy that impacts every member of the school community and we join the family in mourning. 

“A team of grief and school counselors are on hand and available to lend support to students and staff. We ask that all join us in enfolding Dani’s family and friends in prayer during this difficult time.”

According to a press release, the Cocoa Beach Police and Fire Departments responded following a 911 call from a beachgoer that two females appeared to be in distress in the rough surf off Minuteman Causeway. Brevard County lifeguards were able to assist one female safely to shore; however, Marceline was carried further out by the strong current. The U.S. Coast Guard subsequently responded to assist with the search, along with the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office aviation unit.

Cocoa Beach Police continued to patrol the shoreline into the night. At approximately 1 a.m. on Dec. 4, a couple walking on the beach notified them of a female’s body on the shore. Cocoa Beach Police Officers responded, followed by investigators who identified Marceline as the drowning victim. 

A GoFundMe page was set up in Marceline’s memory and stated “Danielle was vacationing in Florida for her 18th birthday with her mother, Chris and her best friend Mary. She was swimming in the ocean and was pulled by the current. This is a tragic loss for her family and friends at this time and we just ask for a ton of support and this Go Fund Me will help with the costs necessary at this unexpected time.”

As of noon on Dec. 5, nearly $25,000 had been raised in Marceline’s memory.