Swimmer missing in possible CA shark attack identified as search ends
The swimmer who went missing off California’s Central Coast in a possible shark attack on Sunday has been identified as Erica Fox, a 55-year-old resident of Monterey County.
Fox was reported missing off of Lovers Point in Pacific Grove, California, on Sunday afternoon, according to a joint news release from the city of Pacific Grove, the city of Monterey and the U.S. Coast Guard.
The agencies said two witnesses reported that Fox may have encountered a shark off the shore while swimming, but a shark attack had not been confirmed.
Fox’s identity was released in a subsequent joint news release Monday, which also announced that the search-and-rescue efforts were suspended after more than 15 hours covering 84 square nautical miles.
According to the release, multiple U.S. Coast Guard boat and air crews responded to the search, in addition to authorities from the Pacific Grove Police Department, Monterey County Sheriff’s Office and the Monterey Fire Department.
“While coordinated search operations have concluded, detectives will continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the disappearance,” Pacific Grove Police Department commander Brian Anderson said in the release. “We remain committed to determining what happened and following every available lead.”
The agencies extended their condolences to Fox’s family, who had been notified, the release said.
“On behalf of the cities of Monterey and Pacific Grove and our first responders, we extend our heartfelt sympathies to Erica’s family and loved ones” Monterey Fire Chief Andrew Miller said in the release. “This is a deeply felt tragedy for our community. We are grateful to all the agencies and first responders who joined the search and provided their support during this incident.”
According to the release, Lovers Point in Pacific Grove and Monterey’s McAbee and San Carlos beaches will remain closed through Tuesday. Beach advisories were also in place through Tuesday for Asilomar State Beach, Monterey Municipal Beach, Del Monte Beach, and Monterey State Beach.
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