According to the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office, a third friend who was with them called for help.
HOUSTON — A woman is dead and man still missing after they were reported to be struggling in the water near Surfside Beach Thursday night, according to the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies responded just after 6 p.m. on June 19 after a friend who was with the man and woman called for help.
According to the sheriff’s office, a 25-year-old woman was found dead about 45 minutes after the search began. The 31-year-old man she was with remains missing.
The U.S. Coast Guard joined the search with more equipment and personnel. The search continued until nightfall Thursday, then resumed early Friday morning. It continued throughout the day with boats and drones, but the search was eventually suspended Friday evening.
At this point, authorities say the effort has shifted from rescue to recovery. The sheriff’s office says there is no indication of criminal activity, but the case remains open pending autopsy results and further investigation.
“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of these swimmers,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement to KHOU 11. “When loved ones are lost during an accident, the grief is unimaginable.”
As a result of recent incidents and increased summer beach traffic, the sheriff’s office said it has provided additional equipment to Surfside Beach police and increased weekend staffing.
We’ll update this story with any new information.