A search for a man who disappeared while swimming at Pigeon Point Beach ended in tragedy Thursday morning after his body was pulled from the water, according to Antigua.news.
The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has identified the deceased as Terry Tonge, 56, of Swetes. Members of the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force Coast Guard discovered Tonge's body floating offshore at approximately 6:55 a.m. on June 25, bringing a grim conclusion to a multi-agency search that had begun the previous day.
Tonge was reported missing Wednesday after entering the sea for a swim. Witnesses reported seeing him in distress before he disappeared beneath the surface, triggering an immediate response from the Coast Guard, the Antigua and Barbuda Search and Rescue (ABSAR) team, police officers, and private divers. Search efforts continued for several hours before being suspended overnight and resumed at first light Thursday morning.
A medical doctor officially pronounced Tonge dead at 8:22 a.m.
Police have not yet disclosed the cause of death, and investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident remain ongoing.
The Royal Police Force extended its condolences to Tonge's family and loved ones as they mourn his passing.
