Coast Guard Calls Off Search For Kayaker Missing Near Honeymoon Island

DUNEDIN, FL — While the U.S. Coast Guard on Monday evening called off its search for a kayaker missing near Honeymoon Island State Park in Dunedin, Pinellas County deputies said they would continue to look for 18-year-old Elías Guillermo Lara Vargas on Tuesday, law enforcement officials said.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission requested help with a water rescue at Honeymoon Island on Sunday just before 6:30 p.m.

Three people were kayaking on the water when two people drifted far from shore and capsized because of the waves, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release.

Savannah Ozer, 19 was rescued and brought to a hospital for evaluation, the agency said. She has since been released.

Vargas wasn’t found and multiple agencies helped with the search for him on Sunday and Monday.

Both kayaks were recovered near Caladesi Island, south of Honeymoon Island, deputies said.

Agencies involved in the search included:

• Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater
• Coast Guard Station Sand Key
• Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg watchstanders
• Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office
• Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation
• Dunedin Fire Department
• Clearwater Fire Department
• Palm Harbor Fire Department
• Tarpon Springs Fire Department
• Florida State Park Rangers

Coast Guard crews searched by air and sea covering about 290 square miles in 10 to 15 mph winds and 3- to 4-foot seas, the agency said.

The Coast Guard suspended the search for Vargas on Monday at 6:45 p.m. pending the development of new information.

“We extend our deepest condolences to Mr. Vargas' loved ones during this difficult time,” Lt. Vincente Garcia, a Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg search and rescue mission coordinator, said. “Suspending a search is never a decision taken lightly. We are thankful to our crews and partner agencies for their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts.”

Though the Coast Guard has suspended its search, PCSO said its deputies would continue their efforts to look for Vargas on Tuesday.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Coast Guard at 866-881-1392.

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