Florida Woman Found Dead Under Lifeguard Stand

Hollywood, FL, United States (AHN) – A woman sleeping on the beach was found dead Thursday morning.

Melissa Garcia, 37, was sleeping with her boyfriend and two other homeless people under the lifeguard stand overnight, her boyfriend, Richard Dickerson, 40, told police. When Dickerson awoke around dawn he noticed she was not breathing or moving and her lips were blue.

After unsuccessful attempts to revive Garcia, Dickerson ran to a nearby fire rescue station to get help. Authorities came to the scene and confirmed her dead.

Dickerson told investigators the two had been sleeping under the lifeguard stand for a few nights. He also told police that Garcia had two beers and a Xanax pill before going to sleep.

Despite the rainy and chilly temperatures Wednesday night, Dickerson said he thought the blankets the two were under would provide enough warmth.

Authorities are investigating the incident but do not suspect foul play.

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