Coast Guard suspends search for missing paddle boarder last seen in Key Biscayne

KEY BISCAYNE, Florida. – The U.S. Coast Guard has suspended the search for a missing paddle boarder who was last seen Monday in Key Biscayne.

The coast guard confirmed in a press release that it had suspended its search for Luciano Mercenari, 29, on Thursday “pending further information.”

According to Coast Guard officials, Mercenari was last seen around 5:15 p.m. Monday, leaving Cape Florida on Pines Canal in Key Biscayne.

Authorities said the area was close to Mercenari's residence, but he did not return home by sunset as planned.

The Coast Guard confirmed that Mercenari's paddleboard and dry bag were found Tuesday morning by a good Samaritan about 4 miles off the coast of Haulover Inlet. Officials said the Good Samaritan reported the discovery Tuesday evening after discovering the paddle board they found was connected to the case.

Coast Guard officials said Mercenari was spearfishing on his paddleboard and was wearing a light gray long-sleeve “Reef Cheefs” rashguard and gray athletic shorts.

“Suspending an active search and rescue case is never an easy decision, and so it is with heavy hearts that we extend our sincere condolences to Mr. Mercenari’s family and friends,” said Captain Chris Cederholm , commander of Coast Guard Sector Miami. “We are grateful to our local and state partners for their assistance in this joint effort. »

According to a news release, rescue teams searched an area of ​​approximately 2,219 square miles, roughly the size of Delaware.

“Weather conditions on scene during the search were winds of 10 to 20 knots with calm seas,” the press release said.

According to authorities, Mercenari is 1.87 m tall and weighs approximately 90 kg. He has dark brown hair, cut short and a shaved beard.

The Coast Guard is asking anyone with new information to call Coast Guard Sector Miami at 305-535-4300.