Coast Guard, local agencies suspend search for missing man near Far Rockaway Beach

NEW YORK – The Coast Guard suspended its search for a 35-year-old man reported missing at Far Rockaway Beach in the East Rockaway Inlet, N.Y., at 8:30 p.m. today.

Ramone Figueroa went swimming offshore with Daria Miranda, 24, when Miranda began having trouble. Figueroa tried to help her to shore, went under and never resurfaced, according to witnesses.

Miranda was recovered by a Good Samaritan and transported to waiting Emergency Medical Service personnel on shore. She is listed in critical condition at a local hospital.

Figueroa remains missing.

A 21-year-old woman who reported the incident stated that all three involved were co-workers.

Rescue crews from Coast Guard Station Jones Beach, Nassau County Aviation and marine assets, New York Fire Department air units and New York City Police Department divers participated in the search.

“Today there was an exhaustive effort by all agencies involved - we saturated the area with assets and searched for 12 hours,” said Chief Petty Officer Keith Kucera, the executive officer of Coast Guard Station Jones Beach. “It’s always a good idea to check the water temperature and weather reports before going out. Wearing a lifejacket may also improve your chances of being located as they help keep you above water.”

The case has been suspended pending further developments.

(EDITOR'S NOTE: Information was corrected in this press release.)