Grim Discovery Follows Coast Guard Suspension of Boater Search in Palos Verdes Estates
A tragic turn unfolded in the search for two missing boaters off the coast of Palos Verdes Estates, California. After the Coast Guard suspended its search, citing a lack of distress signals and no response to urgent marine broadcasts, human remains were discovered along the shoreline.
The discovery began Wednesday morning, around 8:20 a.m.,when a severed limb was found near the location where the men’s boat capsized. This grim finding prompted a renewed investigation.The following day, Thursday, authorities located another leg and what is believed to be a femur in the same general area. A spokesperson for the Palos Verdes Estates Police Department confirmed these findings.
“Around 1 p.m. Thursday, authorities searching the area found a second leg,” stated Aaron Belda of the Palos Verdes Estates Police Department. He also confirmed the discovery of an unconfirmed human femur. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office is currently conducting an investigation to determine if the remains are connected to the missing boaters.
The two men had launched their boat from Cabrillo Marina on Monday, but failed to return.A search initiated Tuesday morning located their boat against the rocks near the 1800 block of Paseo Del Mar, but the men were nowhere to be found. The Coast Guard’s decision to call off the search on Wednesday afternoon was based on the absence of any signs of distress and a lack of response to the Urgent Marine Information Broadcast (UMIB).
The Coast Guard’s statement regarding the suspension of the search read, “no signs of distress” and “no response to UMIB (Urgent Marine Information Broadcast).” This decision, while seemingly based on protocol, now casts a somber shadow over the investigation in light of the subsequent discovery of human remains.
This tragic event underscores the inherent risks associated with boating, particularly in unpredictable ocean conditions. Authorities are urging boaters to always prioritize safety measures,including carrying appropriate safety equipment and filing float plans before embarking on any trip.The investigation into the identities of the remains and the circumstances surrounding their deaths is ongoing.
The investigation is ongoing, and further updates will be provided as they become available. The community of Palos Verdes Estates and the surrounding areas are awaiting answers and grappling with the tragic loss.
Coast Guard Ends Search for Missing Boaters Near Palos Verdes
The U.S. Coast Guard announced Wednesday the suspension of its search for two boaters who went missing off the coast of Palos Verdes Estates, California. The men, both reportedly in their 50s, were last seen amidst perilous ocean conditions.
While authorities have not publicly released the names of the missing boaters, the Coast Guard’s decision to halt the search underscores the challenging circumstances faced during the operation. “The search has been suspended,” a Coast Guard spokesperson confirmed. The statement did not elaborate on the reasons for the suspension, but the risky conditions likely played a significant role.
The incident occurred during a period of heightened ocean hazards. A high surf advisory, issued by the National Weather Service, warned of large waves and dangerous rip currents along Los Angeles County beaches.This advisory remained in effect until 9 p.m. Wednesday. Forecasters reported “large breaking waves” ranging from 8 to 13 feet impacting west-facing beaches Tuesday morning.
The public was urged to avoid the water during this period due to the significant risks posed by the powerful waves and strong currents. The challenging conditions likely hampered rescue efforts and contributed to the difficult decision to suspend the search.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of the ocean and the importance of adhering to safety guidelines when engaging in water activities. Boaters are encouraged to check weather forecasts and heed warnings issued by local authorities before venturing out onto the water.
This report incorporates information from City News Service.
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