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Search on for missing Molokai swimmer

The Maui News

Air, land and ocean searches were underway for a 66-year-old Molokai man who was last seen swimming away from Kaunakakai pier on Thursday, according to police and the Coast Guard.

Carl Steffler of Kaunakakai is described as Caucasian, 6-feet-2-inches tall and weighing about 210 pounds. He has gray hair and blue eyes.

Molokai police said an investigation has found that Steffler has exhibited suicidal ideations in the past.

The Coast Guard reported receiving a report from police at 10:30 a.m. Thursday that Steffler’s belongings were found on the Kaunakakai pier. Security footage showed Steffler swimming 750 yards off the pier but not returning, according to the Coast Guard.

Along with two Coast Guard cutter crews, Maui Fire Department rescue watercraft operators and divers were searching for Steffler.

The Coast Guard issued an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast notice to mariners to assist.

Winds of 17 mph and seas of up to 6 feet were reported in the area.

Ground search crews included police, firefighters and state Department of Land and Natural Resources workers.

Helicopter crews from the Maui Fire Department and Air Station Barbers Point and a Coast Guard Air Auxiliary pilot also were searching for the missing man.

An Air Station Barbers Point HC-130 Hercules air crew and Navy Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 37 MH-60R Seahawk helicopter air crew were scheduled to join the search.

Anyone who has information that may aid in the search is asked to call police at 244-6400 or the Coast Guard at (808) 842-2600.

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