Updated search underway for second man off Cape Jaffa
South Australian authorities are continuing a long-running search operation for a second man who remains missing after a tragic incident off the south-east coastline near Cape Jaffa. The search follows the discovery of a 67-year-old Victorian man’s body in the sea on Tuesday night, an event that prompted an intensified effort to locate the other man involved in the incident. Police say they will search for as long as it takes to find him, underscoring the importance of resolving the case for his family and for public safety in the region.
What is known so far
Early reports indicate that two Victorian men, aged 67 and 74, encountered trouble in the waters off Cape Jaffa, a popular coastal area in South Australia’s south-east. While one man was recovered from the sea, the other remains missing. Emergency services, including marine search units, patrol boats, and locally stationed divers, have coordinated a comprehensive search plan spanning beaches, rocky shores, and likely swimming routes. The investigation and rescue mission are being led by local police in collaboration with state maritime authorities.
Continuing search strategy
The recovery of the 67-year-old man’s body has redirected the operation toward locating the still-missing 74-year-old. Search efforts involve an aerial overview, sonar scanning, and coordinated ground teams moving along the coastline. Weather conditions, water visibility, and tidal patterns are critical factors in planning each phase of the search. Authorities have emphasized that resources will remain in place until there is clear news regarding the missing man’s whereabouts.
Impact on the community and what residents should know
Cape Jaffa and surrounding communities are closely watching the investigation. Local residents, boaters, and visitors may encounter temporary restrictions as responders conduct searches, collect evidence, and ensure the area is safe for ongoing operations. Officials stress that the public should avoid interfering with search zones and report any witnesses or information that could help piece together the events leading to the disappearance.
What families are told
Families of both men have been kept informed through official channels. In such cases, authorities provide regular updates on search progress and any new findings. Support services are available for relatives and witnesses who may be affected by the ongoing operation, including counselling and victim-support resources. The emotional toll of a missing person case is profound, and the community’s collective compassion can be a vital source of strength during this difficult time.
How you can help
If you were near Cape Jaffa around the time of the incident or have information that could assist investigators, you are urged to contact local police. Details from bystanders, fishermen, or other maritime users who may have seen the two men or unusual activity in the water could prove crucial. Even seemingly minor observations can help investigators reconstruct the sequence of events and direct search efforts more effectively.
Looking ahead
Authorities say they will maintain a robust search posture until the missing man is located or other conclusive information emerges. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on safety, accountability, and providing closure to the families involved. The incident at Cape Jaffa serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of coastal environments and the importance of coordinated, well-resourced search and rescue operations in regional Australia.
