DESTIN, Fla. (WDNews) — Authorities continued their search Friday for 10-year-old Trinity Eslinger, who was last seen Thursday evening in the water between O’Steen Beach and the L Jetties in the Destin East Pass.
Despite an extensive land, air, and sea effort throughout the morning and afternoon, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) reported that Trinity had not been located as of late Friday.
The sheriff’s office deployed two vessels and 10 divers who conducted 24 dives during the day. Drone units scanned the area from above while Beach Patrol units searched the shoreline. Community Resource Deputies were also brought in to support the operation.
Multiple agencies joined the search, including three vessels from Eglin Air Force Base, a Destin Fire Rescue boat with dive support from the North Bay Fire Control District, and several boats and divers from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), which also provided helicopter support.
“We are deeply grateful to our public safety partners who joined us in today’s effort,” the OCSO said in a statement. Officials also extended thanks to the Destin Chamber of Commerce and Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer for assisting first responders.
Search operations are expected to resume Saturday.
“Our hearts are with Trinity’s family,” the sheriff’s office said. “We join the community in praying for Trinity and her loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”
UPDATE: 6/15/25 8:00pm
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office continued search efforts Sunday for 10-year-old Trinity Eslinger, who was last seen in the water at Destin’s East Pass on Thursday.
Deputies and partner agencies remain committed to the search, using marine units, beach patrols, drones, and specialized dive teams. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement has provided a fixed-wing aircraft to assist through Monday. Volunteers from Daphne Search and Rescue also joined the effort.
Officials say search operations will continue Monday with a focus on surrounding waterways and shoreline areas.
“This remains a heartbreaking time for Trinity’s family and our community,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement. “The dedication of everyone involved has been unwavering.”
Photo Courtesy of Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office
