On Tuesday, January 23, 2018, Discovery Channel Storm Chasers star Joel Taylor, 38, from Norman, Oklahoma died aboard Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines cruise ship Harmony of the Seas while the cruise ship was near Puerto Rico. Storm Chasers last season was in 2012.
According to those on the ship during the cruise, Taylor collapsed on the dance floor and was carried back to his cabin. After the medical team was unable to revive him, they removed Joel’s body in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
A drug overdose is suspected according to those who were aboard the cruise. Passengers say, that police and drug-sniffing dogs raided the boat twice, in two separate ports, after he died. Toxicology reports have been performed and are pending. The FBI is investigating.
Weather Channel Meteorologist Jim Cantore remembered Taylor on Twitter. “I’m heartbroken to hear of the passing of Joel Taylor. My heart goes out to his parents. Long before his Discovery fame, Joel and his parents accompanied us on a trip to Hawaii while we taped our show Atmosphere’s. His passion for tornadoes was infectious.”
Fellow Storm Chaser Reed Timmer, posted to Twitter. “RIP my best friend and storm chasing partner, Joel Taylor. I am shocked and absolutely devastated by the loss of my incredible, caring friend. We chased so many intense storms, and I wish we could have just one more storm chase. I’ll miss you forever, Joel. We lost a legend”
The Discovery Channel also released a statement,”We are so saddened to hear about Joel’s passing. We will always remember him fondly as an incredible meteorologist and driver of ‘The Dominator.’ Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”
More on the Joel Timmer including a video can be found on the Cruise Bruise Blog.
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