A search for a missing boater that started after a grounded vessel was discovered with a dog on board and a man's cellphone and wallet left behind has been suspended, authorities said Sunday.
The missing boater has been identified as Ralph G. Fletcher, 58.
The Coast Guard said they were notified Saturday evening that a 21-foot boat had been grounded near Glen Cove with personal items and a dog still on board. The Coast Guard searched an area of 225 nautical square miles around the Long Island location where the boat was found before suspending the search on Sunday.
“Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of Mr. Fletcher in this difficult time,” said Capt. Michael Day, commander at the Coast Guard Sector New York Command Center. “Suspending a search is never an easy call to make and was made with deep consideration in this tragic case.”
