Coast Guard suspends search for missing boater off Big Island
HONOLULU — The Coast Guard suspended the active search Wednesday at sunset for the boater missing off the Big Island.
Derek Liu, 52, remains missing.
"Our condolences go out to the family and friends of Mr. Liu," said Lt. Scott Carr, the Coast Guard 14th District public affairs officer. "We extend our thanks to our partners in the Hawaii County Fire Department and the Navy for their support and time on this search."
Responders conducted a total of 26 sorties covering 820 square miles (713 sq. nautical miles) over four days.
Involved in the search were:- Coast Guard MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crews from Coast Guard Air Station Barbers Point- The crews of the USCGC Ahi (WPB 87364) and USCGC Kittiwake (WPB 87316)- Navy MH-60 Seahawk helicopter crews from HSM-37 at Kaneohe Bay- Hawaii County Fire Department air crews, boat crews and divers
Watchstanders from the Coast Guard Sector Honolulu command center received notification from the Hawaii County Fire Department Sunday morning regarding a 12-foot Zodiac dinghy found adrift offshore by a mariner. The dinghy had evidence of recent use with two fishing rods, tackle box and fresh fish in the cooler aboard.