Originally published on WINK News by Sommer Serne and Mariaregina Mendoza on August 25, 2025
An oily sheen appeared on the Caloosahatchee River over the weekend, causing concern among residents in North Fort Myers. Many are worried about a strong diesel smell near the Edison Bridge.
WINK News reporter Mariaregina Mendoza was at the scene, where the air smelled normal compared to the weekend. She contacted the U.S. Coast Guard, which confirmed that an investigation is ongoing. The recent rain has made it difficult to pinpoint the sheen’s source. The U.S. Coast Guard is currently investigating the substance to determine its origin.
A Facebook post from the Calusa Waterkeeper provided a potential clue, stating, “Hopefully the source of this petrochemical spill is found promptly. If anyone has any information, please contact the National Response Center at 800-424-8802.”
Residents have reported seeing and smelling the brown, blue-green substance since Saturday.
Many described the odor as unbearable and toxic.
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