Updated at 12:38 p.m., Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Big Island firefighters continue search for missing diver
By David Waite
Advertiser Staff Writer
First Battalion Fire Chief Bob Bailey said the man was reported missing by a diving buddy about 6:40 p.m. Sunday.
As of this morning, 11 firefighters were involved in the search, Bailey said.
Five firefighters were combing the ocean waters off Kahena Beach by boat. That number included two two-person diving teams and a boat operator, Bailey said.
Also involved in the search is the Big Island Fire Department helicopter, with a pilot and rescue diver aboard, and four other firefighters who are conducting a shoreline search.
Bailey said searches such as the one ongoing are usually undertaken for three full days after someone is reported missing.
The search for the missing diver, believed to be a Big Island resident, will likely end at sunset tomorrow, Bailey said.
Reach David Waite at dwaite@honoluluadvertiser.com.
