The search for 10-year-old Trinity Eslinger continues after an extensive operation Friday in the waters near Destin’s East Pass, where the child was last seen Thursday night.
- The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office deployed two vessels and 10 divers who conducted 24 dives in the area where Trinity was last seen in the water Thursday night between O’Steen Beach and the L Jetties in Destin. Despite the comprehensive effort throughout Friday morning and afternoon, Trinity has not been located.
Multiple agencies joined the search operation. Eglin Air Force Base provided three vessels, while Destin Fire Rescue contributed one vessel with dive support from North Bay Fire Control District. Florida Fish and Wildlife deployed multiple vessels with divers and a helicopter, all working in coordination with sheriff’s office personnel.
- The sheriff’s office also utilized a drone unit, deployed Beach Patrol units to search shorelines, and assigned Community Resource Deputies to fill operational gaps during the search.
“We are deeply grateful to our public safety partners who joined us in today’s effort,” the sheriff’s office stated in announcing the search update.
Local businesses also supported the operation. The Destin Chamber of Commerce and Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer provided assistance for first responders’ needs during the search.
Search operations are scheduled to continue Saturday.
“Our hearts are with Trinity’s family, and we join the community in praying for Trinity and her family as well as for strength during this incredibly difficult time,” wrote the sheriff’s office.
2 Responses
My heart goes out to the Mother and family. I hope she is found safe and sound. My prayers are with you all. God be with the divers and rescue squads. This is not an easy job to do especially when it involves a child. ❤️
Several weeks ago, I was walking on a barrier island in the Gulf Coast of FL when I fell into “quick sand” aka decomposing vegetation: fell in up to my hips. My girlfriend was there and fell in too up to her mid-thighs; so she was able to pull herself out and help me get out. Just last weekend, I was walking along the coast on a barrier island again, and another woman fell into quick sand also unexpectedly. She was in up to her thighs from what I could tell as at the time I saw her back and thought she just sat down on the sand and didn’t find out until later what had happened. She was able to get herself out, but it really startled her. Then her husband walked over to help and he sunk into the sand as well up to his knees. He also was able to get himself out. When these things happened, I told them my story. I thought what if this were to happen a child or a dog being of a shorter stature. After my incident I even reported it and where it had occurred to the FL state park personnel requesting they make a note on their website possibly about this being a possibility to be aware of for tourists and locals alike. I hope Trinity has been found by now, but her seemingly sudden disappearance made me think of these “quick sand” references.