Man drowns in Gulf of Mexico about 8 miles from where President Obama, daughter swam

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Man drowns about 8 miles from where Obamas swam

PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. — A man has drowned in the Gulf of Mexico about eight miles from where President Barack Obama and daughter Sasha were taking a dip.

The News Herald of Panama City reported that it happened about 3:30 p.m. Saturday. Double red flags were flying all day, meaning the water was closed to the public because of rough surf.

The Obamas also swam Saturday afternoon but in protected waters at a resort where the president, first lady Michelle Obama and Sasha were spending the weekend.

The visit was designed to promote tourism in the Florida Panhandle, which has sagged after the BP oil spill in the Gulf.

Police identified the victim as 41-year-old John Richards of Mooresville, N.C.

Information from: The News Herald, www.newsherald.com