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Teen Dies in Florida After Apparent Alcohol Poisoning
2 Jul
Summary
- Shannon Tanner died May 20 after a Florida trip.
- Alcohol poisoning is suspected as the cause of death.
- Family questions the rapid decline and alcohol access.
Nineteen-year-old Shannon Tanner passed away on May 20, 2026, following a trip to Florida shortly after his high school graduation. His mother, Pamela Thompson, noted that Tanner last communicated with family around 7:30 PM on Sunday, May 17, with emergency services called just over two hours later. Deputies responded to a medical emergency at approximately 9:30 PM on May 17.
Upon arrival, authorities were informed that Shannon had suffered from alcohol poisoning and had been drinking excessively. He was subsequently taken off life support and pronounced deceased three days later. While alcohol poisoning is believed to be the cause, the Bay County Sheriff's Office continues its investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death and how Tanner, a recent graduate who planned to join the Air Force, obtained alcohol.
Tanner's family is seeking answers regarding the events leading up to his hospitalization and death. They described him as a vibrant individual who was "full of life" and intended to become an Air Traffic Control Specialist. His loved ones are also establishing a nonprofit called Families Against Underage Drinking.
