Overview
- The man went surfing near Surfer’s Beach in Aguadilla around noon Thursday and was not heard from afterward, according to his daughter’s account relayed to the Coast Guard.
- His Airbnb host reported him missing Friday evening, prompting a multi-agency search spanning shoreline and offshore areas.
- Watchstanders coordinated with Puerto Rico Police, U.S. Border Patrol, a specialized Puerto Rican maritime unit, and local responders during the operation.
- An MH-60 Jayhawk launched from Air Station Borinquen located the surfer on rocks that could not be reached by boat or on foot and hoisted him into the helicopter.
- Audio of a family call with Capt. Robert Stiles said the man was conversant and likely dehydrated, with paramedics standing by, and officials urged water users to share plans and carry proper safety gear.