5-Year-Old Girl Swept into Ocean at Laguna Beach Found

The body of a 5-year-old girl who disappeared into the ocean at Laguna Beach, California, has been found, officials reported on Thursday. The tragic incident occurred amid powerful water conditions, according to authorities.Police and Marine Safety EffortsThe girl went missing near the Montage Resort in Laguna Beach on Tuesday evening when a strong wave swept her away. During an early morning aerial survey on Thursday, police sighted her body 250 to 300 yards offshore at Christmas Cove. This location is about one-quarter mile north of where the wave initially hit her, near Treasure Island Beach. Laguna Beach Marine Safety personnel, along with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Harbor Patrol, recovered the body.Family Notification and Rescue EffortsThe Orange County Sheriff’s Department coroner confirmed the child’s identity. Authorities have informed the family about the tragic outcome. On the evening of the incident, the girl was in the water with her mother and sibling when they were caught in the intense surf. Nearby bystanders quickly entered the water, rescuing the mother and one child. Unfortunately, the second child could not be found immediately.Coast Guard and Weather ConditionsThe U.S. Coast Guard launched an extensive search operation, which lasted over 30 hours and covered more than 90 square miles. They suspended the search on Thursday. On the day of the incident, the National Weather Service reported elevated surf conditions in Laguna Beach, with waves reaching up to 9 feet. Such conditions led to beach hazard warnings across Southern California, citing high wave heights and strong rip currents.