The search for a 59-year-old man from Arizona who went missing while snorkeling off ‘Anini Beach, has been officially suspended. The multiagency search operation, which spanned three days, ended yesterday afternoon with no sign of the missing snorkeler. The man was last seen on Sunday morning at approximately 11:45 a.m., as reported by a Kaua‘i government press release.

As per the initial report, the man was part of a group of snorkelers and was noticed missing after he failed to return to shore shortly after 12:15 p.m. The search efforts, in response, immediately were deployed to find the missing man. Agencies involved included the Kaua‘i Police Department, Kaua‘i Fire Department, U.S. Coast Guard, Ocean Safety Bureau, and volunteers from Kaua‘i Search and Rescue. Despite exhaustive air, land, and sea searches, the team was unable to locate the missing man.

Kaua‘i Fire Chief Michael Gibson expressed the collective heartache felt by those who tirelessly searched, stating, "It’s never easy when we suspend the search for a missing swimmer, and when we cannot provide complete closure for someone’s family. Everyone involved worked tirelessly for this reason, and our sincere condolences are with the man’s family," according to an official press release.

Previous reporting by Hoodline detailed the challenges faced by the search teams, including strong ocean currents and reduced visibility, which undeniably complicated the recovery efforts. Assistant Chief Kalani Ke also expressed gratitude toward those involved and empathy for the man's loved ones, saying, "We are truly grateful for the efforts of all the agencies and volunteers who participated in the search." He added, "Our hearts are with the missing person’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time, and we appreciate the support of everyone involved," as mentioned in the Kaua‘i government press release.