Editor's note: The attached Coast Guard infographic describes the incident search area, times, and assets involved.
PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The Coast Guard suspended its active search for a missing boater off the coast of North Carolina Monday at 8:20 p.m.
The person missing is Jeffrey Kale, 47, of Clover, South Carolina.
North Carolina Coast Guard lifeguards received a notification from Kale's family around 10:30 p.m. Saturday that they were late for a fishing trip in their 32-foot white Cape Horn center console boat.
In total, rescuers searched for about 72 hours, covering more than 7,762 square miles, nearly the size of Massachusetts.
“It is with great regret that we cease our active search for Mr. Kale,” the commander said. Cory Sargent, North Carolina Sector Deputy Commander. “A massive search by air and sea with numerous crews, assets and several good Samaritans saturated various areas where we thought he might be. Whenever we conduct search and rescue, there is a desire to bring someone home and safely reunite them with family and friends. The decision to call off a search is one of the most difficult decisions to make. Our thoughts are with Kale. It’s with the house.”
The rescuers who participated in the search are:
- Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City HC-130 Hercules Airplane
- Coastal Patrol Vessel USCGC Steelhead (WPB 87324)
- Coast Guard Station Oak Island 29' Compatible Boat – Small
- Coast Guard Station Wrightsville Beach 29' Compatible Boat – Small
- Good Samaritan Sailors
