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Search turns to recovery for child swept away by wave on Kitty Hawk beach

Posted at 5:33 PM, Apr 25, 2018
and last updated 2018-04-26 23:07:32-04

KITTY HAWK, N.C. - The United States Coast Guard has suspended its search for a child who went missing on a Kitty Hawk beach Wednesday.

The search was suspended at 8:30 p.m.

According to a Coast Guard spokesperson, Kitty Hawk Police received a report a woman was walking with her four-year-old son on the beach when the child was swept into the ocean by a surprise wave.

The mother was unable to keep her eye on the child and the child went farther out into the water.

"Suspending a search for anyone, let alone a young child, is the most difficult thing a commanding officer in the Coast Guard is called upon to do," said Capt. Bion Stewart, commander, Sector North Carolina. "I can't imagine what the family of this little boy is going through right now."

Kitty Hawk boy memorial

An MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew from Air Station Elizabeth City was initially launched to conduct a search operation over the surrounding area. A 47-foot Motor LIfeboat crew from Station Oregon Inlet also searched on the water.

News 3 spoke with a local parent who said the news was absolutely devastating. "I remember being a Mom of a four year old, the thought of it just breaks your heart and makes you want to cry," said Megan Rubino.

Coast Guard crews searched along with crews from Kitty Hawk Beach Rescue, Kitty Hawk Fire Department, Dare County, Corolla Ocean Rescue and others.

The Kitty Hawk Police Department said Thursday morning that all search efforts have been suspended and have now transitioned to recovery efforts.

A memorial was set up on the beach where people can leave items and kind words.

Stay with News 3 for updates.