Search called off for boy missing at Lealā Sliding Rock

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Department of Search and Rescue has officially suspended the search for a 15-year-old boy who went missing while swimming at Lealā Sliding Rock on Tuesday, last week.

Utumoe Alefosio, the director of the Department, confirmed with local media that the search operations concluded on Thursday evening after an intensive three-day effort, regrettably without any success in locating the young man.

During the search efforts on Thursday, Coast Guard personnel, who were already in the region for a pre-planned search and rescue training exercise, collaborated closely with local search teams at Lealā. The Coast Guard's advanced equipment and specialized training further bolstered the local teams' efforts, allowing searchers to cover more ground and implement sophisticated techniques tailored to the challenging terrain and conditions.

Alefosio said that despite the suspension of the formal search after the critical 72-hour window, the Department remains committed to periodically patrolling the area to ensure the safety of the public and to stay vigilant for any signs related to the missing boy.

The family of the missing boy was notified on Thursday evening about the decision to call off the search. They are currently receiving support and assistance during this difficult time as they cope with the uncertainty and distress of the situation.