DESTIN, Fla. — After an exhaustive six-day search covering more than 250 square miles by air, land, and sea, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office has announced it will conclude active search operations for 10-year-old Trinity Eslinger at the end of July 24.
Trinity was last seen around 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 12, near the Destin East Pass, a popular but unpredictable stretch of water where swift currents meet the Gulf of Mexico. Despite the coordinated efforts of multiple local, state, and federal agencies, as well as numerous volunteer groups, Trinity has not 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.”
While dedicated search assets are being scaled back, deputies will continue to patrol the area as part of routine operations, and the Sheriff’s Office remains committed to pursuing any new leads or information that may surface. The hope of bringing Trinity home remains alive in the hearts of all involved.
Over the past week, more than forty dives were conducted as part of the mission, which extended from the south end of Choctawhatchee Bay through the East Pass and into the Gulf of Mexico. Specialized units used boats, helicopters, sonar, dive equipment, and ground crews in unified coordination.
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office expressed its deepest gratitude to the following agencies and organizations for their assistance:
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
- United States Coast Guard (USCG)
- Eglin Air Force Base
- Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)
- Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office
- Alabama Florida Helicopter Patrol
- Destin Fire Department
- North Bay Fire Department
- United Cajun Navy
The Sheriff’s Office also extended heartfelt thanks to the many volunteers and community members who contributed time, effort, and support.
As the community comes to terms with this painful moment, officials urge everyone to continue keeping Trinity and her family in their thoughts and prayers. Though the physical search has paused, the emotional and spiritual support of the community remains critical in the days ahead.
Anyone with information related to Trinity’s disappearance is still encouraged to contact the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office.
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