Authorities have ended active search efforts for 10-year-old Trinity Eslinger, who disappeared in the water near Destin’s East Pass on June 12. Despite a six-day, multi-agency operation covering over 250 square miles, Trinity remains missing. Deputies will continue routine patrols in the area and respond to any new leads.
SHALIMAR — The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office is ending active search efforts Tuesday evening for 10-year-old Trinity Eslinger, who vanished in the water near Destin’s East Pass six days ago.
Despite an extensive search by air, sea, and land that spanned more than 250 square miles and involved over 40 dives, Trinity has not been found.
Trinity was last seen around 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 12, in the waters off Destin’s East Pass. Since then, multiple local, state, and federal agencies, as well as volunteer organizations, have worked around the clock in an effort to locate her.
“Our hearts are heavy, and this is not the outcome anyone hoped for,” Sheriff Eric Aden said. “We are deeply grateful to every agency, volunteer, and community member who gave their all in this search. Our thoughts and prayers are with Trinity’s family during this unimaginable time.”
While dedicated search resources are being withdrawn, the Sheriff’s Office said deputies will continue patrolling the area during routine operations and will respond to any new leads. Officials emphasized their ongoing support for Trinity’s family.
The search area included the south end of Choctawhatchee Bay, the East Pass, and parts of the Gulf of Mexico. Search teams deployed boats, aircraft, dive teams, and ground crews in a unified response.
Agencies involved included the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, U.S. Coast Guard, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office, Alabama Florida Helicopter Patrol, Destin and North Bay Fire Departments, and the Cajun Navy.
“We know this continues to be an incredibly difficult time for her family and the entire community,” the Sheriff’s Office said. “Please keep Trinity and her family in your thoughts and prayers.”
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