Body of Missing Teenager Recovered from Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach authorities have confirmed the recovery of the body of 15-year-old Aayan Randhawa, who went missing while swimming in the ocean on July 28. The body was discovered by Marine Safety officers on Monday morning, over a week after Randhawa was last seen. The Orange County Sheriff's Coroner's officials identified him on Wednesday night, bringing closure to a tragic incident that has deeply affected the local community. Randhawa was reported missing around 9 p.m. on July 28 after he and a companion went swimming near Lifeguard Tower 11, an area known for strong rip currents that day. Despite the hazardous conditions, the two entered the water but did not return to shore. Lifeguards initiated a search that evening, deploying personnel in the water, on land, and utilizing a helicopter from the Orange County Sheriff's Department. The search operation, which included the Coast Guard, covered a vast area from the Bolsa Chica Wetlands to Newport, spanning approximately 105 square miles. The search efforts lasted nearly 20 hours but were suspended on July 29 at 8 p.m. Capt. Stacey Crecy, commanding officer of Coast Guard Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach, expressed the difficulty of the decision to suspend the search, emphasizing the emotional toll on Randhawa's family and friends. The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by ocean currents, particularly in popular swimming areas. The community mourns the loss of a young life, and support for Randhawa's family continues to grow.