Body of missing boogie boarder in Florida found, identified, officials say
Officials search for man who went missing from Brevard beach
Multiple agencies assisted in trying to locate a man who went underwater and didn't resurface, according to officials.
MELBOURNE BEACH, Fla. - Officials confirmed that the body of an experienced bodyboarder who disappeared while riding waves off Florida's Atlantic coast has been found, according to the Brevard County Sheriff's Office.
Experienced bodyboarder dies in Florida surf
What we know:
Jason Doyle, 53, an experienced bodyboarder, disappeared under the water on Sunday morning while riding waves near Ponce de Leon Park, officials said.
A body was found Monday, and on Tuesday, officials confirmed that it had positively been identified as Doyle's.
Authorities said they have discovered a body in the search for missing boogie boarder Jason Doyle. The body has yet to be identified. [Credit: Christa Ciampaglia]
His longtime partner, Christa Ciampaglia, said she was taking photos from shore when Doyle disappeared beneath the water. When he did not resurface, she immediately called 911.
Friends described Doyle as a longtime bodyboarder and a respected figure in the sport, saying he was highly experienced in the water.
Dangerous surf blamed
What you can do:
Ahead of the weekend, officials warned of the potential for dangerous rip currents and rough surf with swells potentially up to 8 feet or higher.
Even on calm and sunny days, rip currents can form, which can become deadly.
What to do if caught in a rip current:
- Stay calm
- Do not swim against the rip current
- Swim left or right, parallel to the beach
- Wave or yell for help
- Always swim near a staffed life guard station
The Source: Information in this article was provided by the Brevard County Sheriff's Office.