Holmes Beach, FL – Douglas Naeher, 60, is facing attempted first-degree murder charges after allegedly attacking his wife during a fishing trip off the coast of Holmes Beach, Florida. The incident occurred on July 20, 2025, while the couple was on a 30-foot boat about 33 miles from shore.
The Attack
According to an arrest affidavit from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, the couple set out around 7 a.m. for a fishing trip. As they traveled, Naeher’s behavior became increasingly angry after snapping his fishing line. His wife, noticing his mood, decided to get into the water to avoid conflict.
While she floated on a pool noodle, holding a rope tied to the boat, Naeher allegedly untied the rope, putting the boat in gear, and left her in the water.
The victim later described the experience as feeling like Naeher was “leaving her to die.” She feared for her life and believed Naeher only returned after spotting a distant boat. Once she managed to climb back aboard, Naeher allegedly punched her repeatedly on the head and stomped on her head with both feet.
Struggle for Survival
As the victim tried to protect herself, she pretended to be dead, slowing her breathing in an effort to survive. After stopping the attack, Naeher allegedly dragged her by her hair into the water again and attempted to strangle her.
While gasping for air, the victim heard Naeher say, “I’m going to f—ing kill you.” Despite the brutal assault, the victim refused to give up, clinging to the boat’s ladder to stay afloat.
Naeher, thinking she was no longer a threat, stopped the boat, but when he attempted to leave, the victim climbed back aboard a third time. Naeher allegedly shoved her overboard again, but she managed to wrap a rope around her ankle, holding onto it as he started to drive away.
Victim’s Survival and Naeher’s Arrest
The victim, suffering from a concussion and multiple contusions, escaped the attack when she jumped off the boat at the dock to avoid further harm. She later reported the incident to authorities.
Douglas Naeher was arrested and is being held without bond at the Manatee County Jail.
