COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. — The Coast Guard made the difficult decision Sunday to suspend the search of a well-known Naples oncologist Dr until they get new information.
Shortly after Dr. Chaundre Cross went missing last Wednesday morning, his boat was found in the middle of the water near Sanibel Island.
Coast Guards actively searched for the doctor between Naples Beach, Fort Myers Beach, and Marco Island.
It was Sunday night, at sunset when the Coast Guard said they would suspend the search — until they get new information due to there being no sightings of him.
The Coast Guard says they've spent more than 100 hours searching and covered more than 13,100 square miles.
"We had multiple Coast Guard units and assets out there," said Petty Officer First Class Ayla Hudson.
The family and friends of Dr. Cross joined in the search to try and help find him.
"All day, every day, and at night, just doing everything best to locate him," said Hudson. "It can be very difficult to search for one singular person in the water. People are a lot harder to see, whether you are on a boat or in the air."
Rescue workers were never able to determine if Dr. Cross was wearing a life jacket.
Unites States Coast Guard Captain Michael Kahle added, "It is always a difficult decision to suspend a search and rescue case. Our deepest sympathies and condolences go out to the family and friends of Dr. Cross during this difficult time."
And as we know Dr. Cross is a well-known oncologist in the Naples area - Genesis Care released a statement saying:
Our first priority is the safety and well-being of our employees and patients. We are concerned for the well-being and safety of Dr. Cross and are here to support all of our employees and ensure the continuation of care for our patients. Our Naples and Bonita Springs offices will continue operations to ensure continuous care for our patients. We have other physician coverage and support from the community. We will continue to care for our patients.
The Coast Guard says if anyone has any further information or sees anything to contact the coast guard or your local law enforcement.
The Collier County Sheriff's Office, who has also been involved with the search, says there is still an active missing person report for Chaundre Cross at this time.
