Diver Dies in Cape Cod Waters

Police confirm kayakers found the man unresponsive at Town Neck Beach in Sandwich, Massachusetts

A diver was found dead Saturday in Cape Cod waters.

Police confirm kayakers found the man unresponsive at Town Neck Beach in Sandwich, Massachusetts.

He has been identified as Michael Dearth, 56, of Orleans.

Local police and fire crews responded, alongside the Coast Guard and environmental police, but it was too late.

The water off of the beach, near the east entrance of the Cape Cod Canal, is a popular spot for divers, often lobstering. That's why beachgoers noticed something was wrong with one of them Saturday afternoon.

"[The kayakers] were pointing to a flag that was set up there down in the water, and they said it hadn't moved," said Sarah Lindblad.

The diver down flag, or scuba flag, is used to let boats or even swimmers know that a diver is underwater.

"You're supposed to be a hundred feet away at all times," said spear fisher Tom Colombo.

Police say the Dearth was already dead when they arrived and that he was alone. Foul play is not suspected.

But police say he was experienced and seemed to be wearing all the necessary equipment.

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