Coast Guard suspends active search for woman swept away by waves in Arecibo

The U.S. Coast Guard announced early Wednesday that it had suspended the active search for 34-year-old Lyza Marie Padilla Coreano, who was swept away by wind-driven waves Monday afternoon near the Cueva del Indio Nature Reserve in Arecibo.

By THE STAR STAFF

Coast Guard search and rescue mission coordinator Matthew Romano announced the suspension of the active search for 34-year-old Lyza Marie Padilla Coreano, who was swept away by wind-driven waves Monday afternoon near the Cueva del Indio (Indian Cave) Nature Reserve in Arecibo.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the families and hope they find strength and comfort during this difficult time,” Coreano said in a written statement issued early Wednesday. “I wish to express my gratitude to the citizens present and the authorities on the scene for their actions, as well as to all Coast Guard units and local emergency response partners for their professionalism, dedication, and tireless efforts during the search. This is a stark reminder of the importance of always remaining vigilant when planning activities on or near the water, especially in rough seas.” 

Two men and a woman were struck by a 12-foot wave in the coastal nature reserve area at around 5:20 p.m. on Monday. One of the men made it to shore safely.

The Coast Guard and partner agencies searched an area of ​​some 850 square miles and recovered the man’s body.

According to previous reports, the men, ages 31 and 38, tourists from St. Louis, Missouri, and Padilla Coreano, from Puerto Rico, were taking photos in the rocky area of Cueva del Indio when they were struck by waves and fell into the sea.