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SALT LAKE CITY — A Utah man was found dead off the coast of Puerto Rico on Friday.
The United States Coast Guard said a search for Ben Kerbs, 52, ended Friday morning after a lifeguard recovered his body near the Balneario beach in Fajardo, Puerto Rico.
The Coast Guard said he was last seen Thursday by his wife while they were paddling out from Playa Escondida. A distress call was made at 1:53 p.m., and Coast Guard members started searching for him via helicopter.
Other Coast Guard members and Puerto Rico police were unable to reach the area due to "heavy sea state and surf conditions which exceeded vessel safety parameters," a Coast Guard statement said.
Two lifeguards attempted to rescue Kerbs during search efforts Thursday, but they were overcome by dangerous sea conditions and needed rescue from the helicopter. The lifeguards reported seeing Kerbs' body face down and unresponsive in a reef area, the statement said.
Puerto Rico search and rescue agencies used drone equipment to monitor the coastline while searching.
"Our deepest condolences to the family of Ben Kerbs," said Nino Correa, commissioner of the Puerto Rico Emergency Management Bureau. "In cases like this, we do not rest until we can save the life of the person in need or find the body to bring closure to the family involved. Also, we remind people that there is a high risk of dangerous rip currents so no one should visit our beaches, at least until Sunday."
Capt. José E. Díaz, commander of Coast Guard Sector San Juan, said water conditions are dangerous for even the strongest of swimmers.
"Most beaches on the island do not have lifeguards. It is crucial people maintain situational awareness and notify authorities when you see signs of trouble, this could save a life," Díaz said.
An online fundraiser* has been created for the Kerbs family and to cover funeral costs.
*KSL.com does not assure that the money deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit to the account, you should consult your own advisers and otherwise proceed at your own risk.
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