Search Suspended for Missing Diver Near Key West Wreck
The U.S. Coast Guard suspended its search on Sunday for Ellen Ruth Domb, 79, who went missing while diving on the Vandenberg wreck off Key West. The decision affects local search operations and highlights diving safety concerns for residents, operators, and visiting divers.
The U.S. Coast Guard suspended search operations on Sunday after an extensive multiagency effort failed to locate a missing diver at the Vandenberg wreck off Key West. The missing diver was identified as Ellen Ruth Domb, 79, of North Palm Beach. She was reported missing after entering the water on Friday and being last seen at 11 a.m. by a dive partner.
Officials said Domb separated from her dive buddy within two to three minutes of entering the water when strong current conditions developed. Search teams canvassed roughly 2,780 square feet over a 60 hour period before pausing operations pending additional information. Agencies involved in the response included the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Coast Guard, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and the Key West Police Department.
The suspension of the search does not end community concern. The Vandenberg is a well known wreck dive site and this incident underscores the risks posed by sudden strong currents even for experienced divers and visiting recreational boaters. For local residents and businesses that serve divers, the episode raises immediate questions about safety briefings, buddy procedures, and on water emergency communications.
Family members and the local diving community remain affected by the unresolved status of the case. Law enforcement continues to seek any information that could assist in locating Domb or clarifying the circumstances that led to her separation from her dive partner. Anyone with relevant information was asked to call 911 or to contact the U.S. Coast Guard via marine VHF channel 16 or by telephone at (305) 292 8727.
The pause in active search operations also prompts policymakers and local leaders to review coordination among maritime responders and to consider whether additional resources or public safety guidance are needed around popular wreck sites. For now, dive operators and mariners are urged to exercise heightened caution in the area and to report any sightings or evidence that might assist authorities in resolving the case.
