Coast Guard suspends search for 2 missing boaters near Brunswick

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - On Wednesday evening, Coast Guard Sector Charleston announced their decision to suspend its search for two missing mariners pending new information.

The missing boaters are David Wickenden, 54, and Charles Andrade, 60.

A sailor on another boat reported seeing a capsized 50-foot catamaran to Coast Guard watch standers approximately 65 miles east of Brunswick, Georgia.

Rescue crews searched by air and sea for approximately 77.45 hours (about 3 days) and more than 9,140 square miles.

“The decision to suspend a search is always difficult to make and never done lightly,” said Cmdr. Jason Erickson, Coast Guard Sector Charleston search and rescue mission coordinator. “When we send our rescue crews out, it is with great hope we can bring people home safely, our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the missing boaters during this incredibly difficult time.”

Rescue crews involved in the search include Savannah Police Department Underwater Seach and Rescue Team along with several aircraft from Savannah, Miami, Elizabeth City, N.C., Clearwater, Fl.