JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Coast Guard has suspended the search for a missing kayaker near St. Augustine Inlet, Florida, Sunday.
Missing is 46-year-old Eiffel Gilyana, who went missing near the ocean side of the North Jetties in St. Augustine, Saturday.
Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville watchstander received the initial report from a group of kayakers via landline at 10:39 a.m., Saturday, stating that Gilyana went missing and was wearing black pants with no shirt or life jacket.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends affected by this tragic event," said Cmdr. Nick Barrow, search and rescue coordinator, Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville. "This was an intensive search with the hope of finding Mr. Gilyana. I want to thank our partners from the city of St. Augustine, St. Johns County, Florida Fish and Wildlife and Customs and Border Protection for their contributions to this unified effort.”
Rescue crews searched approximately 341 square miles and 90 asset hours.
On-scene weather conditions during the search were 4-6 foot seas with 10-knot winds and a rip current advisory in effect.
Search and rescue crews include:
- Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater
- Coast Guard Station Mayport
- Coast Guard Cutter Tarpon
- St. Johns County Sheriff's Office
- St. Johns County Fire Rescue
- St. Augustine Police Department
- St. Augustine Fire Department
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Anyone with information, call Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville: 904-714-7561
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