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Coast Guard Hoists Missing Surfer to Safety After 30 Hours Off Puerto Rico

Coast Guard released rescue video to underscore safety planning.

Overview

  • The 68-year-old went surfing near Surfer's Beach in Aguadilla around noon Thursday and was reported missing Friday evening after failing to return to his Airbnb.
  • An MH-60 Jayhawk crew from Air Station Borinquen located him on rocks and reefs unreachable by boat or on foot and executed a hoist extraction in low-visibility nighttime conditions.
  • Coast Guard watchstanders coordinated with Puerto Rico Police, U.S. Border Patrol, FURA and local responders during shoreline and offshore searches.
  • Officials said the man was conversant and in stable condition and was transferred to awaiting paramedics for evaluation.
  • The service published video of the hoist and audio of Capt. Robert Stiles informing the family, using the case to urge mariners to share plans and carry life-saving gear.