Coast Guard and partners halt search for two missing people after helicopter crash off the coast of Na Pali on Kauai

On Friday, multiple agencies continued their search for a tour helicopter that crashed about a quarter mile offshore in Hanakoa Valley on the Na Pali Coast on July 11. (Courtesy of USCG)

HONOLULU (KHON2) — The Coast Guard and the County of Kaua’i suspended their search for two missing passengers from the helicopter crash near the Na Pali Coast on Kaua’i Sunday afternoon.

According to authorities, a 69-year-old pilot and a 60-year-old passenger are still missing.

A 53-year-old passenger was found unconscious on Thursday.

The rescue and search operation lasted about 60 hours and covered an area of ​​more than 1,300 square kilometers.

“We want to thank our partners in Kauai County for their professionalism and organization, which made this joint response very effective,” said Coast Guard Commander Kristen Hahn, Coast Guard Search and Rescue Mission Coordinator in Honolulu. “While this event was a tragedy for both the families and the community, I am comforted that our responders were able to collect some debris and conclude our search efforts, which could provide closure for all involved.”

Authorities will continue to investigate the cause of the crash.