The Coast Guard announced they have suspended the search for a boater who went missing near Cedar Key on Friday
- Gilbert Valdes, 54, reported missing after boat capsized
- Two other boaters with Valdes were rescued Saturday morning
Gilbert Valdes, 54, was with two other boaters Friday night when their 23-foot boat capsized. The other two boaters -- Garrick Valdes and Bruce Smith -- were rescued from the boat Saturday morning six miles south of Sea Horse Key.
The Coast Guard continued the search for Gilbert Valdes alongside Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission agents, the Levy County Sheriff's Office, and Cedar Key Fire and Rescue. Officials say Coast Guard units searched 2,852 miles during 12 searches covering 3,468 square nautical miles west of Cedar Key.
"Our hearts, thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Gilbert," said Capt. Gregory Case, Sector Commander, Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg, Florida. "Suspending the search is never an easy decision to make, but despite our best efforts, we were unable to locate Mr. Valdes."
FWC's investigation into the case is ongoing.
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