The body of a young girl who was swept into the ocean in Laguna Beach during dangerously high surf earlier this week has been recovered. The girl's remains were spotted around 1:30 p.m.
Thursday during an aerial coastline survey near Christmas Cove, approximately a quarter-mile from where she was last seen at Treasure Island Beach, according to a city news release.
Laguna Beach Marine Safety officers, assisted by the Orange County Sheriff's Department Harbor Patrol, responded to the scene. The Orange County coroner's office confirmed the body was that of the missing girl, and her family has been notified.
The girl went missing Tuesday night when she, her mother, and her brother were pulled into the ocean by powerful waves. Her disappearance triggered a massive 24-hour search involving crews from the Orange County Sheriff's Department Harbor Patrol, the U.S.
Coast Guard, and the Laguna Beach Marine Safety Department. Search efforts were called off Wednesday night.
The tragedy has deeply affected the community. Laguna Beach Mayor Mark Orgill issued a statement expressing sympathy for the family when the search was suspended.
"This is one of the most heartbreaking incidents I have witnessed during my time serving this community," Orgill said. "Our hearts go out to the young victim's family, friends, and all those affected by this tragic loss.
On behalf of the Laguna Beach community, I extend our deepest condolences and want the family to know they are in our thoughts and prayers during this unimaginably difficult time."
A surf advisory for the area was set to expire Thursday, but experts warn that risks remain. "We still have big surf in Southern California, and especially in Newport Beach.
It's down a bit from yesterday, but we can expect big surf through today and actually through the weekend," said Newport Beach Chief Lifeguard Brian O'Rourke.