Updated at 9:18 p.m., Sunday, January 14, 2007
Search called off for missing surfer
Advertiser Staff
The Honolulu Fire Department has ended its search for surfer Joaquin Velilla, 35, who was reported missing Thursday.During its three-day North Shore search, the fire department employed its helicopter, and personnel from its Sunset Beach and Rescue 2 units, said spokesman Capt. Frank Johnson.
The search was called off at about 5 p.m. today.
Johnson said divers were in the water but were unable to search underwater ledges and caves due to high surf.
Velilla, an experienced surfer, left his Hale'iwa home Thursday at 5 p.m. to go surfing at 'Ehukai Beach. His vehicle was located at the beach park. An anonymous person found his board Thursday night and turned it to fire department personnel on Friday.
