Ongoing Search Efforts for Missing 10-Year-Old Trinity Eslinger

DESTIN, Fla. — The search continues Monday for a 10-year-old girl who disappeared Thursday evening while swimming off the coast of Destin.

According to the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, Trinity Eslinger was last spotted around 7:30 p.m. on Thursday in the waters between Osteen Beach and Norriego Point.

Since she disappeared, several agencies have been engaged in daily search operations. The sheriff’s office reported on Friday that, despite a thorough search that lasted through the morning and afternoon in the Destin East Pass area, Trinity had not yet been found.

The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office utilized two boats, 10 divers, and a drone in their search efforts. Beach patrol and Community Resource Deputies have also contributed to the search.

Additional support has come from several agencies, including three boats from Eglin Air Force Base, a boat from the local fire department, divers from the North Bay Fire Control District, multiple boats and divers and a helicopter from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement also provided a fixed-wing airplane to assist Sunday and Monday.

“Despite the emotional weight of this mission, the dedication of everyone involved has been unwavering,” the sheriff’s office said on social media. 

The search is expected to continue Monday with a heavy focus on the surrounding waterways and coastline.

A GoFundMe created by Trinity’s aunt describes how the family was on vacation when the child was swept away by a current while swimming. The girl’s mother attempted to rescue her but was unsuccessful, according to the fundraiser.

“All we want is for Trin to be found so her mom can bring her home,” the post reads.

Trinity is described as a loving child who would have been entering fifth grade soon and was looking forward to turning 11 next month.

You can keep track of the search for Trinity on the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.