Off-Duty Firefighter Goes Missing While Diving Near Port Of Long Beach

LONG BEACH, CA — A search is underway near the Port of Long Beach to rescue a free diver who went missing Wednesday night, according to reports.

The Long Beach Fire Department said they received a call around 9:45 p.m. about a 28-year-old man who had gone missing while diving. A group of about four men had gone free driving near Pier J near the Queen Mary, authorities said.

Three of the men went into the water without being tethered or connected to an air tank. Free divers usually wear a wetsuit, a mask or goggles with fins. When only two of the men returned, the group called 911.

According to The LA County Fire Department said the missing diver is an off-duty LA Fire Department firefighter who went recreational diving with some friends.

"He was not involved with any fire department related duties at the time of his disappearance," an LAFD spokesperson said in a statement.

Multiple search and rescue crews on boats canvassed the water to help find him, but had difficulty due to poor water conditions with low visibility. The U.S. Coast Guard, LA Port Police, Long Beach Police and Fire Departments, and the LA City and County Fire Departments continue to search for the missing man.

Crews are searching in 58 degree water at depths as far as 30 to 40 feet.

"The focus of the mission continues on the search for the missing man, and the safety and support of those still actively searching for him," LAFD said.