MARIN COUNTY, CA — Two people were found dead Sunday on Tomales Bay after setting out by canoe around midnight to view bioluminescence and camp along the shoreline, according to Marin County Fire.
Emergency crews were called around 10:45 a.m. on Sunday after the two canoeists failed to return as expected, according to Mari Ochoa, Marin County Fire public information officer. They had planned to camp at White Gulch Beach after viewing the bioluminescence, officials said.
A multi-agency search involving water rescue crews and air support was launched.
Both people were located and confirmed dead before they could be recovered, according to Marin County Fire. Both were wearing life vests when they were found.
Recovery efforts were completed before 1:30 p.m. on Sunday.
"We extend our sincere condolences to the families, friends and loved ones affected by this loss," Ochoa said.
Officials have not said what led to the deaths. The circumstances and causes remain under investigation by the Marin and Sonoma county sheriff's offices.
Marin County Fire, the Marin and Sonoma county sheriff's offices, Sonoma County Fire, U.S. Coast Guard, National Park Service and California Highway Patrol participated in the response.
The identities of the two people were not immediately released.
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