Coast Guard Officially Suspends Search for Missing Boaters Brian McCluney and Justin Walker

By  //  August 23, 2019

Searched more than 146,368 square miles, an area equivalent to the size of Montana

U.S. Coast Guard crews, multiple partner agencies and good samaritans have searched since Friday for the overdue Port Canaveral boaters Brian McCluney and Justin Walker, who were last seen departing the 300 Christopher Columbus boat ramp in a 24-foot center console.

JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA — The Coast Guard suspended its search Thursday for two missing boaters who did not return from a trip near Port Canaveral.

U.S. Coast Guard crews, multiple partner agencies and good samaritans have searched since Friday for the overdue Port Canaveral boaters Brian McCluney and Justin Walker, who were last seen departing the 300 Christopher Columbus boat ramp in a 24-foot center console.

After searching more than 146,368 square miles, an area equivalent to the size of Montana for over 281 hours, officials were unable to locate the boaters who were reported overdue Friday evening.

After searching more than 146,368 square miles, an area equivalent to the size of Montana for over 281 hours, officials were unable to locate the boaters who were reported overdue Friday evening. (USCG image)

“Our Coast Guard men and women worked tirelessly alongside federal, state, and local partner agencies, as well as countless volunteers, searching for Brian and Justin,” said Capt. Mark Vlaun, Commander, Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville.

“Despite those efforts, we have been unable to locate any signs of the vessel or the missing boaters. Suspending a search is never an easy decision, and a lot of factors are considered and calculated before we make that decision. We have been in regular contact with the family members throughout our search and extend our heartfelt condolences for what we know is a very difficult time for them.”

U.S. Coast Guard aircrews from Air Station Clearwater and Elizabeth City conducted multiple search patterns alongside Navy P-8 planes and CBP C-130 aircraft. (USCG image)

Involved in the search were:

The Coast Guard will continue to have a presence in the area, but active searches will conclude at sunset. Anyone with information is asked to contact Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville Command Center watchstanders at 904-714-7558.

After searching more than 146,368 square miles, an area equivalent to the size of Montana for over 281 hours, officials were unable to locate the boaters who were reported overdue Friday evening.  (U.S. oast Guard image)
Brian McCluney and Justin Walker were last seen departing the 300 Christopher Columbus boat ramp Friday in a 24-foot center console.
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