Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office ending its active search for Trinity Eslinger

OKALOOSA COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - After an extensive six-day search in the Destin East Pass and surrounding Gulf Waters, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office says it is concluding its active search operations for 10-year-old Trinity Eslinger at the end of the day Wednesday.

Officials said while they will never stop hoping to bring Trinity home, they are in the process of scaling back dedicated resources. Deputies will continue to patrol the area as part of their regular operations.

Trinity was last seen in the water around 7:30 p.m. near the Destin East Pass on Thursday, June 12th. Since then, multiple state and local agencies, along with volunteer organizations, have worked tirelessly in a coordinated search effort by air, sea, and land. Despite those efforts, Trinity has not yet been located.

“Our hearts are heavy, and this is not the outcome anyone hoped for,” said Sheriff Eric Aden. “We are deeply grateful to every agency, volunteer, and community member who gave their all in this search. Our thoughts and prayers are with Trinity’s family during this unimaginable time.”

Although active operations are concluding, the Sheriff’s Office said they remain committed to supporting Trinity’s family and will respond to any new information that becomes available.

According to law enforcement, the search operation spanned 250 square miles, covering the south end of Choctawhatchee Bay, the East Pass, and stretching miles into the Gulf.

Volunteer groups, including the United Cajun Navy, tell NewsChannel 7 they will continue their search efforts on Thursday.

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