A local organization is calling on the local boating community to assist in the search for 10-year-old Trinity Eslinger, who went missing in the water near Destin last week.
- Emerald Coast United is seeking boats equipped with VHF radio, side-scan or down-scan sonar to join recovery efforts over the next 48 hours.
Trinity disappeared in the water between O’Steen and Norriego Beach, prompting an Aqua Alert from the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office on the evening of June 12. Emerald Coast United’s goal is to help bring Trinity home and provide some closure for her heartbroken family.
The organization has scheduled coordinated search operations beginning Tuesday afternoon (June 17) at Joe’s Bayou Boat Launch at 800 Beach Dr. in Destin. The schedule includes a 2 p.m. debriefing followed by an afternoon search. Wednesday will feature an 8 a.m. morning debriefing and an all-day search operation.
Volunteers must ensure their boats have VHF radio and side-scan or down-scan sonar capabilities. All safety equipment must be up to date, and participants are advised to bring water, sunscreen, lunch, sunglasses and binoculars.
- Parking fees will be waived for volunteers who tell staff they are with the United Cajun Navy or Emerald Coast Unit when arriving at the boat launch, according to the organization.
The volunteer group asked the community to keep Trinity and her family in thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Those available to assist can contact Kevin LaFond at (251) 419-4890 or Joey Sauvageau at (850) 420-5592 for coordination updates.
