Search Intensifies for Louisiana Teen Missing in Bahamas

The search for a missing Louisiana teen who fell overboard in the Bahamas has been suspended, according to the United Cajun Navy.

Search and rescue operations have been suspended for a missing Louisiana teen who fell overboard in the Bahamas. The search for Taylor Casey, 41, has been ongoing since she disappeared on June 19 while on a yoga retreat on Paradise Island in Nassau.

The United Cajun Navy, a volunteer organization that assisted in the search, announced the suspension on Tuesday, July 12. The organization said that "after extensive searching, and no sign of Taylor, we have made the difficult decision to stand down."

Search Intensifies for Louisiana Teen Missing in Bahamas

The search involved multiple agencies, including the Royal Bahamas Police Force, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the United Cajun Navy. Search teams used boats, drones, and search dogs to scour the waters and surrounding islands for any sign of Casey.

The search was challenged by rough seas and limited visibility. The United Cajun Navy said that the conditions "made it extremely difficult to search effectively."

Search Intensifies for Louisiana Teen Missing in Bahamas

Investigators are now treating the case as a missing person investigation. They are exploring all possibilities, including the possibility that Casey may have drowned, suffered an accident, or been the victim of a crime.

Casey's family said they are "deeply concerned" for her safety and well-being. They said that Casey "would never disappear like this."

Search Intensifies for Louisiana Teen Missing in Bahamas

The FBI is assisting in the investigation, as it handles all crimes against Americans overseas. The FBI would typically be involved from day one of a reported disappearance, working with local authorities upon request.

The FBI would trigger its involvement through the legal attaché office and the FBI office that handles the region of the world where the crime against an American citizen occurred.

Search Intensifies for Louisiana Teen Missing in Bahamas

This case has similarities to other high-profile missing person cases involving Americans overseas, such as the Natalee Holloway case in Aruba and the Ana Maria Knezevich case in Argentina.

Investigators are treating Casey's disappearance with urgency, as each day that she is not found reduces the likelihood that she will be found alive.

The family of Taylor Casey has set up a GoFundMe page to raise funds for the search and investigation. The page has already raised over $100,000.

The United Cajun Navy said that they will continue to monitor the situation and will provide assistance if needed. The organization said that "our thoughts and prayers are with Taylor's family and friends during this difficult time."