Coast Guard Suspends Search for Missing Person Off Arecibo Coast Following Wave Incident
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — The U.S. Coast Guard has officially suspended the active search for a missing 34-year-old woman off the coast of Arecibo, Puerto Rico. The decision, announced Tuesday evening, halts rescue operations pending the development of any new information regarding the whereabouts of Lyza Marie Padilla Coreano.
The search operation began following a distress call received by 911 dispatchers on Monday at approximately 5:20 p.m. Reports indicated that three individuals had been struck by a powerful 12-foot wave near the Reserva Natural Cueva del Indio. While one person managed to swim to shore safely and is reported to be in good health, the incident resulted in the recovery of one body fitting the description of one of the missing individuals. Padilla Coreano remained unaccounted for when the search was suspended.
Rescue crews from the Coast Guard and various partner agencies conducted an extensive search of the area, covering approximately 850 square miles of ocean. The operation involved air and surface units battling challenging conditions, including 12-foot seas and winds ranging from 15 to 25 mph.
“The Coast Guard made the extremely difficult decision to suspend our active search tonight,” stated Cmdr. Matthew Romano, the search and rescue mission coordinator for Sector San Juan. “We extend our most heartfelt condolences to the families and hope they find strength and closure during this most difficult time.”
Cmdr. Romano also expressed gratitude to the first responders and bystanders who assisted. “I would like to extend my appreciation to the bystanders and on-scene authorities for their actions and to all the Coast Guard units and local emergency response partners for their professionalism, dedication, and tireless efforts during the search.”
The suspension underscores the dangers posed by rough sea conditions. Officials used the announcement to remind the public to exercise extreme vigilance when planning activities near the water.
Multiple agencies participated in the comprehensive search effort, including Coast Guard Sector San Juan, Air Station Borinquen, the Coast Guard Auxiliary, the Puerto Rico Emergency Management Agency, the Civil Air Patrol Puerto Rico Wing, the Puerto Rico Police Department, and the Oficina Municipal para el Manejo de Emergencias.
The Coast Guard has stated that while the active search is suspended, they remain prepared to resume operations should new, credible information become available.
* uscg.mil
* youtube.com
