Lifeguard performs CPR on victim in boat. Screengrab from CBS8
Another tragedy has occurred at Sunset Cliffs. Friday morning, January 5th, a 56-year old surfer died after being rescued by lifeguards.
The unidentified surfer was surfing with a friend early in the morning, when he took off on a wave and wasn’t seen again – until he was found face-down in the ocean. This occurred near Point Loma Nazarene University.
When emergency crews found him, he was not breathing and they performed CPR during the ride in a lifeguard boat and up on the dock – but to avail. The County Medical Examiner will determine cause of death.
The also unidentified friend of the victim said they were surfing in the dark, when the victim took off on a wave – and never came back. The friend found the guy’s board up on shore. This was around 6 am. The friend reported him missing – and soon thereafter lifeguards, firefighters, paramedics, police and the Coast Guard helicopters launched a large-scale search.
Finally, about 6:49, he was found between the breaking waves and the shore; was pulled into a lifeguard boat, and then rushed to Quivira Court headquarters, where CPR was continued on the dock, but then stopped about 7:30am.
Reportedly, the victim was a competent and experienced surfer. CBS8
This latest very tragic death at Sunset Cliffs is part of a long-string of deaths and serious injuries that have occurred over the years. In an updated chronicle of deaths and distress at the beautiful but dangerous cliffs, the OB Rag has determined over the last 13 years, there’s been an average of 5 deaths or serious injuries at Sunset Cliffs each year.
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RIP, prayers go out to the family.
Stan Searfus was a father of six and well-known surfer who coached the ocean sport at Coronado public schools.