SEARCH CONTINUES FOR MISSING 10-YEAR-OLD TRINITY ESLINGER NEAR DESTIN EAST PASS
DESTIN, FL — The search for 10-year-old Trinity Eslinger entered its fifth day on Monday as first responders, volunteers, and state agencies continued combing the waters near Destin East Pass, where the young girl was last seen on Thursday evening. The massive, emotionally charged search effort has drawn overwhelming support from the community and beyond, but so far, Trinity has not been found.
Trinity was last seen in the water near the East Pass area under circumstances that have yet to be fully detailed by officials. What was meant to be a joyful summer evening near the water quickly turned into a devastating emergency, sparking an urgent multi-agency response that has since grown into a sustained operation involving ground crews, marine units, divers, sonar equipment, and aerial surveillance.
On Monday, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) joined the search effort by deploying a fixed-wing aircraft to assist with aerial observations. The enhanced view from above is hoped to help spot signs that may be hidden from ground or water-based teams.
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office expressed their gratitude for the continued collaboration among multiple agencies, as well as for the tireless work of the first responders and the community members who have shown up day after day to assist. “We’re grateful for the assistance of the FDLE, who provided aerial support with a fixed-wing aircraft to help search the waters,” the department stated in a Monday update.
As each hour passes, emotions remain raw. The Sheriff’s Office shared that their “hearts remain with Trinity’s family as this difficult search effort continues.” Vigils and prayer circles have formed organically across the community, with families, friends, and strangers alike offering hope, love, and strength to Trinity’s loved ones.
Community members have also come forward in growing numbers to provide logistical and emotional support—from bringing food and supplies to search teams, to offering housing for out-of-town volunteers, to simply lighting candles and sharing kind words. In moments like these, the heartache is palpable—but so is the unity.
Search efforts are scheduled to continue into Tuesday, with plans to keep up both water and aerial operations, weather and conditions permitting. Specialized sonar equipment will also remain in use, helping responders navigate the murky and fast-moving currents that characterize the East Pass region.
Officials continue to urge the public not to conduct independent water-based search efforts due to safety concerns. However, those who wish to support the mission are encouraged to work through volunteer organizations and contribute in ways that do not place others at risk.
As the community holds its collective breath, the hope for Trinity’s safe return remains unwavering. Authorities have committed to providing official updates as soon as they become available.
Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office immediately.
