Coast Guard says search for missing SpaceX employee called after body found on shore

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas (Gray News) – The Coast Guard suspended the search for a missing SpaceX employee Sunday evening after his body was located near South Padre Island.

In a statement, the Coast Guard said the air and sea were searched for a combined 18 hours since the man went missing and more than 205 square miles were covered.

Wardens in the Corpus Christi sector said they were notified about 7:45 a.m. Sunday by Cameron County Sheriff’s Department dispatchers. They have reported that a man last seen swimming in waters near Boca Chica beach has disappeared.

An urgent marine information broadcast was issued and a response vessel from Coast Guard Station South Padre Island was ordered to be launched with a small crew and an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter to assist in the search man

According to KVEO, Cameron County Sheriff’s Department officers spoke with a SpaceX employee who told them the missing man was one of his co-workers.

Deputies said another SpaceX employee was seen entering the water in an attempt to reach the swimmer, who was more than 50 meters away. This second employee was unable to reach the swimmer due to high tides and strong currents.

The rescue attempt was able to return to shore safely.

The SpaceX employee who was swimming went under the water and was not seen again until his body washed ashore at 6:33 p.m. Monday, according to the sheriff’s department.

The victim’s name has not yet been released.

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