Missing surfer's family coming to O'ahu
By Eloise Aguiar
Advertiser Staff Writer
Since the discovery of her surfboard last week, the family of missing surfer Courtney Marcher has all but lost hope of finding her alive.
Yesterday, they were making plans to come to Hawai'i for a memorial service.
Courtney Marcher was last seen April 4 on the North Shore. Her surfboard was found April 8.
"My family is just now beginning to accept that the death of my sister may be a reality," said Michelle McHugh, Marcher's half sister.
The family could be here as early as Saturday, McHugh said.
Courtney's friends in Hawai'i and Florida have donated money to help with the family's travel expenses, McHugh said.
Meanwhile, police have suspended the search for Marcher as they await results from experts about the leash that was attached to her surfboard.
Missing persons investigator Phil Camero said he has asked several shark experts to examine the leash to see if they can identify the unusual markings on it. Examinations so far have been inconclusive.
Marcher, 22, was last seen at about 8:45 a.m. April 4 in the water at the Velzyland surfing spot on the North Shore.
Fishermen found her surfboard April 8 at Ka'ena Point, about 18 miles from Velzyland.
Police have said they believe Marcher, who has a history of seizures, ran into trouble in the water and was not a victim of foul play.
Reach Eloise Aguiar at eaguiar@honoluluadvertiser.com or 234-5266.
