A devastating multi-agency search ended in heartbreak on Thursday morning when authorities recovered the body of a five-year-old girl who was swept out to sea during a massive swell in Laguna Beach.
The tragedy began around 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 9th, near Treasure Island Beach. The young girl, identified as Amada Mia Brown of San Bernardino, was walking along the shoreline with her mother and brother when a powerful, ten-foot wave slammed into the coast, dragging all three into the turbulent ocean. While heroic bystanders managed to swim out and pull the mother and son safely back to the beach, the five-year-old was quickly carried away by intense rip currents.
Rescuers battled treacherous conditions for over 30 hours, including low underwater visibility and relentless high surf, expanding their search grid across 90 square miles. According to a press release from the city, early Thursday morning, aerial surveillance spotted the girl’s body roughly 250 to 300 yards offshore from Christmas Cove, about a quarter-mile north of where she initially went missing. Long Beach Marine Safety crews responded to the coordinates and recovered her body.
Local and federal officials expressed profound sorrow over the tragic outcome.
Related: Missing Girl Swept Out to Sea During Gigantic 20ft Southern California Swell (Video)
Laguna Beach Mayor Mark Orgill said in a statement: “This is one of the most heartbreaking incidents I have witnessed during my time serving this community. Our hearts go out to the young victim’s family, friends, and all those affected by this tragic loss.”
“I am incredibly proud of the dedication and professionalism demonstrated by our Marine Safety, Fire, and Police personnel, as well as every agency that assisted in this effort. These men and women put themselves in harm’s way, entering the same dangerous ocean conditions in an attempt to bring this young girl home to her family.”
The U.S. Coast Guard, which heavily supported local lifeguards and the Orange County Sheriff’s Department in the recovery effort, shared in the community’s grief.
“Our deepest condolences go out to the child’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” said Capt. Stacey Crecy, commander of Coast Guard Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach.
High surf warnings remain in effect along the Southern California coastline, serving as a somber reminder of the ocean’s unpredictable power during heavy swell events.
Rest in peace, Amada Mia Brown.
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