PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WDNews) – A fifth dolphin has died at Gulf World Marine Park, prompting Florida State Senator Jay Trumbull to demand the immediate removal of the remaining animals.
In a statement shared Wednesday on Facebook, Trumbull described the recent deaths as “a disturbing and unacceptable pattern,” emphasizing that these are not isolated incidents but signs of systemic failure. This marks the second dolphin death at the park in just over a month.
Trumbull says his office has been actively working with federal and state agencies, including the USDA and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), to intervene. However, he says the time for waiting is over.
“These animals cannot wait any longer,” Trumbull wrote. “FWC has a responsibility to act decisively. I am calling on them to go in immediately, remove the remaining animals, and ensure they are relocated to a safe and appropriate environment.”
Gulf World Marine Park has announced it will remain closed through the end of the week, reopening on June 3. No specific reason for the closure was provided. Attempts to reach the park’s management for comment have not been successful as of Wednesday afternoon.
Senator Trumbull closed his message by saying, “This is no longer about protocols or paperwork—it’s about doing what is right. These animals are suffering. The public is watching. And the time to act is now.”
