Coast Guard Cutter Beluga file photo
HOUSTON — The Coast Guard has suspended the search for a missing kayaker near San Luis Pass, Texas, Friday evening.
An extensive 41-hour search was conducted covering an area of 2,638 square miles.
Involved in the search were:
- A Coast Guard Air Station Houston MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew
- A Coast Guard Station Freeport 45-foot Response Boat-Medium boat crew
- A Coast Guard Sector/Air Station Corpus Christi HC-144 Ocean Sentry aircrew
- The Coast Guard Cutter Beluga
- Galveston Island Police Department
- Galveston Island Beach Patrol
“It’s always an incredibly difficult decision to suspend a search,” said Lt. Mike Hart, Sector Houston-Galveston command duty officer. “We have to consider all the factors involved in the case, and we never make the decision lightly. Our condolences go out to Mr. Ferguson’s family and friends.”
Coast Guard Sector Houston-Galveston watchstanders received a call from the wife of the missing kayaker after he failed to contact her Wednesday. She also reported that Galveston Beach Patrol had found his truck locked, but without the kayak.
Anyone with information on the missing kayaker can contact the Sector Houston-Galveston Command Center at 281-464-4853.
