The U.S. Coast Guard has suspended its search for Thomas McElhany, 26, who went overboard about 35 miles south of Islamorada.
The Coast Guard said crews searched for 32 hours and covered 2,086 square miles.
Cmdr. David Aldous, Coast Guard 7th District search and rescue mission coordinator said “I have been in contact with members of Mr. McElhany’s family throughout our search efforts and know this is a very difficult and painful time for them.”
“Suspending a search is one of the most difficult decisions we have to make as first responders, and it is never made lightly.”
According to the cruise line, this man is missing. An intense search is underway right now. We have turned around. #Carnival #MissingPerson pic.twitter.com/OcMppQJ3SY
— Kimberly Wyatt (@tv_leader) December 14, 2018