VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (7News) — After more than 14 hours of looking for two missing swimmers off Virginia Beach, the U.S. Coast Guard suspended its search Sunday afternoon.
This comes after Coast Guard Sector Virginia watchstanders received a report around 8:30 p.m. Saturday for three swimmers in distress near Virginia Beach.
Nearly 10 minutes after the initial report, officials said one of the swimmers was found unconscious on the beach and rushed to the hospital for further care.
Crews then launched multiple search and rescue crews for the two missing men which lastedmore than 14 hours, covering 102 square miles.
“Our thoughts are with the families and friends during this difficult time,” said Capt. Peggy Britton, commander, Sector Virginia. “The Coast Guard is incredibly grateful for the dedication, expertise, and cooperation of all agencies involved in this search. The teamwork displayed by all involved in these challenging conditions demonstrates the unwavering commitment of working together.”
The following crews were involved in the searches:
- Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter
- Coast Guard Station Wachapreague 29-foot Response Boat-Small
- Coast Guard Station Little Creek 45-foot Response Boat-Medium
- USCGC Pompano (WPB 87339)
- Virginia Beach Police and Fire Department marine, land and drone units
- Virginia Marine Resource Commission marine units
