(JTA) — A Jewish New Yorker who was paddleboarding in the Atlantic Ocean remains missing.
A lifeguard said he had seen Gary Turkel, 41, on the paddleboard in the water without a lifejacket, Longisland.com reported.
Gary Turkel (LinkedIn)
The Coast Guard deployed several units to locate Turkel, including a cutter, search and patrol aircraft, helicopters and patrol boats. Local police and fire units, as well as local volunteers, also are helping in the effort.
Rabbi Ari Perl of the Jewish Center of Atlantic Beach said in a Facebook post Monday evening: “Our friend and member, Gary Turkel, has been missing since yesterday. The agony his family is experiencing is unimaginable; ANY legitimate information, including sighting or recovery of his paddle board, could make a huge difference in the search and should be reported immediately.”
He added: “The family is surrounded by relatives and close friends and asks that we respect their privacy during this incredibly difficult time.”
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