The Monterey County Sheriff's Office has paused the search for Army Specialist Amanpreet Thind, 35, who was swallowed by the turbulent waves of the Pacific Ocean near Big Sur's Soberanes Point. As reported by CBS News Sacramento, the intensive four-day efforts included air, water, and land searches along the perilous coastline, in conjunction with California State Parks Rescue Swimmers and a private dive team.
Divers were initially unable to enter the water until Tuesday, when they began searching for Thind. A Beach Hazard Statement was in effect when a large wave swept Thind and two others into the ocean. The two companions survived with minor injuries, but the search for Thind has been unsuccessful.
Volunteer Juan Heredia of Angels Recovery Dive Team, an experienced diver with 30 years and 15 successful recoveries, continues searching for Thind. “He will be recovered, he will be,” Heredia told KCRA, adding that his goal is to bring closure to Thind’s family.
Formal search operations for Thind have been suspended, but resources remain on standby, deputies say. His family and personnel from the Defense Language Institute, where he was a student, have been informed. Visitors are reminded to respect ocean warnings. “Everywhere we go, every sign that says don't go there, you don't go there, you don't go in the rocks. You don't go where there's danger because there's just too much risk. You think you're going to be okay. It looks okay. And then they get wet and you fall,” said concerned parent Connie Riley, emphasizing the risks, according to KCRA.
Heredia and Thind's family continue to monitor the sea at Garrapata State Park, while Heredia plans to dive as conditions allow, according to KCRA.
