Public Safety

Missing kayaker found safe by U.S. Coast Guard off Grayton Beach

The Walton County Sheriff’s Office announced that Chris Smelley, 37, who went missing while kayaking in the Gulf of Mexico off Grayton Beach yesterday, has been located safe by the United […]

Jared Williams

Add Get The Coast on Google

The Walton County Sheriff’s Office announced that Chris Smelley, 37, who went missing while kayaking in the Gulf of Mexico off Grayton Beach yesterday, has been located safe by the United States Coast Guard out of Mobile.

According to the WCSO, Smelley had gone fishing in his blue and black kayak around 8:30 a.m. and failed to return. The WCSO and South Walton Fire District deployed jet skis to search for Smelley off Grayton Beach.

The United States Coast Guard out of Mobile was notified, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife launched from the Inlet at Destin Pass, heading east towards Grayton to assist in the search efforts.

PROMOTION

Join the conversation...Cancel reply

Continue reading 👇

Public Safety

Remains found buried in Freeport identified as missing Niceville man, search for murder suspect continues

Public Safety

Remains found on Eglin property identified as missing DeFuniak Springs man

Public Safety

Walton County Fire Rescue welcomes Jonathon Davis as new fire chief

Public Safety

15-year-old facing multiple felony charges after Freeport shooting leaves one injured

filftwalton commented on Iconic Sea Oats Motel in Destin acquired, to undergo renovations

“So few of these motel/hotels left. Thanks for not tearing it down”

Respond

Hughes Curtis commented on Cynthia West moves campaign to District 5, will face Hinely for Okaloosa School Board seat

“My humble opinion is that we need the steady logical input from Brett Hinley for Okaloosa school board district 5. He’s a native of Niceville, went to school here and...”

Scott Schaeffler commented on WordroW: July 30, 2026

“2:34, 6 attempts”

Marcia commented on Iconic Sea Oats Motel in Destin acquired, to undergo renovations

“How wonderful it would be if you left it 'old school' - a slice of Old Florida Experience. I'm fearful that what Hgifford says might be the future.”

Helen Rigdon commented on Dr. Diane Kelley retires after more than 45 years in Okaloosa County education

“Dr. Diane, I have been on the sidelines of your career for many years . You are an inspiration for women in many careers. Offering you many well wishes for...”

LC Hough commented on Driver found guilty of DUI manslaughter in crash that killed Fort Walton Beach lab tech

“They need to hang that SOB”

Anna Peele commented on Driver found guilty of DUI manslaughter in crash that killed Fort Walton Beach lab tech

“I miss Demetriu’s friendly face and lively personality at the Magnolia Clinic. Every time I drive through the intersection where the accident happened I just say a prayer for Demetrius...”

Hgifford commented on Iconic Sea Oats Motel in Destin acquired, to undergo renovations

“I hope the motel will be renovated, but having lived here since 1955, I have seen this before: keep the locals happy by saying renovate. But, in reality, it will...”

wendy rudman commented on Driver found guilty of DUI manslaughter in crash that killed Fort Walton Beach lab tech

“Demetrius's absence is still deeply felt by the patients of the clinic where he worked for many years.”

LYNDA WATKINS commented on Driver found guilty of DUI manslaughter in crash that killed Fort Walton Beach lab tech

“This was such devastating news the day we lost Demetrius! He was so loved by so many in the community! Gone but never forgotten ! This guy should get life...”