Search Intensifies for Missing 10-Year-Old Trinity Eslinger in Okaloosa County
OKALOOSA COUNTY, FL — The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, in close collaboration with local first responder agencies, continued their intensive search efforts Saturday for 10-year-old Trinity Eslinger, who has been missing since Thursday evening. The case has gripped the local community, with law enforcement, emergency services, and volunteers uniting in a determined push to bring Trinity home safely.
Trinity was last seen in the late hours of Thursday, though authorities have not yet released details regarding the circumstances of her disappearance. Since then, the search has expanded rapidly in both scope and manpower. Deputies, K9 units, air support teams, marine patrols, and dive teams have been deployed across various zones, with a particular emphasis on coastal and marine environments given the area’s proximity to the Gulf of Mexico.
“We are throwing everything we have into this search,” said Okaloosa County Sheriff Eric Aden. “Our team is working around the clock. Every second matters when it comes to a missing child, and we are not taking any chances.”
The Sheriff’s Office has been coordinating with fire departments, EMS, the U.S. Coast Guard, Florida Fish and Wildlife officers, and community volunteers. The base of operations remains active with rotating shifts of personnel, maps marked with grid patterns, and up-to-the-minute tracking of search zones covered.
Officials have described Trinity as 10 years old with light hair, last seen wearing clothing appropriate for warm weather. Photos have been widely distributed through news outlets and social media channels, and authorities are urging anyone with information, however minor it may seem, to come forward immediately.
“We understand the anguish Trinity’s family is going through right now. We are not just law enforcement officers—we’re parents, we’re neighbors, and we are committed to doing everything in our power to reunite this little girl with her loved ones,” added Sheriff Aden.
The Sheriff’s Office has requested residents in the area to check their security cameras, outbuildings, and properties for any potential signs of Trinity or suspicious activity. Flyers have been distributed across schools, community centers, and local businesses, and volunteers have been assisting in spreading awareness throughout the county.
The community’s response has been swift and compassionate. Local churches have held prayer vigils, restaurants have donated food to feed search teams, and dozens of area residents have joined foot searches and information distribution efforts.
As daylight fades and Saturday’s search concludes, authorities confirmed that operations will resume early Sunday morning, with a continued focus on coastal, marsh, and marine regions. Airboats, drones, and underwater sonar equipment are expected to be part of the expanded effort.
“We are not stopping. Tomorrow, we keep pushing,” said one deputy, visibly moved after hours in the field. “We want Trinity’s family to know—they are not alone in this.”
Anyone with information about Trinity Eslinger’s whereabouts is asked to call the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office immediately at (850) 651-7400. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Emerald Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-850-863-TIPS or via their mobile app.
As hope remains high and search efforts persist, the Okaloosa County community continues to hold its breath—united in faith, determination, and the singular hope of bringing Trinity home.
