Lieutenant Dan Tampa refuses to evacuate as Hurricane Milton approaches, choosing to ride out the storm on his boat despite safety warnings.
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Joseph Malinowski, known locally as Lieutenant Dan Tampa, has captured public attention for his decision to ride out Hurricane Milton on his boat. Despite warnings from local authorities, including Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, he remains steadfast in his choice. His story has gained traction on social media, particularly TikTok, where his videos have amassed millions of views.
Who is Lieutenant Dan?
Lieutenant Dan is not just a nickname; it reflects a character from the movie Forrest Gump. Malinowski, a 54-year-old resident of Tampa, gained this moniker after a viral TikTok video depicted him navigating Hurricane Helene on his small fishing boat. His real-life challenges mirror those of the fictional characterโMalinowski lost one leg in a car accident at age 16 and has faced homelessness for years. He now lives on a 20-foot boat in Tampa Bay.
Riding Out Hurricane Milton
As Hurricane Milton approached Florida’s west coast, Malinowski made headlines again. He stated that he would not leave his boat, even when urged by police and city officials. “God told me to come out here,” he explained in one of his videos. He believes that staying on the water is safer than seeking shelter on land.
Authorities have expressed concern over his safety, especially with predictions of a storm surge potentially reaching 20 feet. Despite this, Malinowski remains defiant. “If my boat breaks apart, then Iโll leave,” he remarked in an interview.
Community Response
The community’s reaction to Lieutenant Dan’s decision has been mixed. Many are worried about his safety and have urged him to evacuate. Police officers visited him multiple times to encourage him to seek shelter, but he politely declined their offers. His TikTok creator friend, Terrence Concannon, has even started a GoFundMe campaign to help Malinowski acquire a new boat.
The fundraiser has garnered significant attention and raised over $23,000 so far. Concannon described Malinowski as “the kindest soul” who never asks for help but is always willing to lend a hand. This campaign aims to provide him with a larger vessel that better suits his needs.
The Impact of Social Media
Social media has played a crucial role in amplifying Lieutenant Dan’s story. His videos showcase not only his resilience but also the unique perspective of someone facing adversity with humor and faith. Concannon’s TikTok updates have kept viewers engaged and concerned for Malinowski’s well-being.
In one video, Malinowski jokingly mentioned having room on his boat for company, adding a light-hearted touch amid serious circumstances. This blend of humor and bravery has made him a beloved figure online.
As Hurricane Milton makes landfall, the fate of Lieutenant Dan remains uncertain. While many residents heed evacuation orders, he chooses to face the storm head-on from his boat. His story serves as a reminder of the human spirit’s resilience in the face of adversity and the power of community support through social media.
The situation continues to evolve as officials monitor the hurricane’s impact on Tampa Bay. For now, Lieutenant Dan Tampa stands firm in his decision, embodying both courage and defiance against nature’s fury.
