Coast Guard Cutter Rollin Fritch file photo
WILMINGTON, N.C. – The Coast Guard has suspended the search for a missing man whose sailboat was discovered after it ran aground on a beach near Frisco on Monday.
Missing is Richard Tomlinson, 82, of Clearwater, Florida. Richard reportedly was sailing for Maine when he departed from a marina in Riviera Beach, Florida.
Multiple crews from Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City and the crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Rollin Fritch searched an area that encompassed 2,700 square miles over a 45 hour period.
“Making the choice to suspend a search by no means is a simple decision and a decision the Coast Guard never takes lightly,” said Cmdr. Stephen Matadobra, Fifth District Enforcement Branch Chief. “We extend our sincere condolences to Mr. Tomlinson’s friends and family in the wake of this tragedy.”
