Home / Disasters and Accidents / Man Survives 16 Hours Adrift at Sea
Man Survives 16 Hours Adrift at Sea
20 Aug
Summary
- A man survived 16 hours floating in the ocean after falling from a watercraft.
- He was found 8 miles from his launch point, suffering from dangerously low body temperature.
- The rescue involved a helicopter search by the Coast Guard the following morning.
A 53-year-old man is recovering after a harrowing ordeal where he spent 16 hours floating in the ocean before being rescued. The incident occurred south of the Seal Beach pier when Paul Carbullido Jr. fell from a personal watercraft during his first-ever ride.
Carbullido was reported missing Sunday evening after falling off about a mile offshore. He recounted the terrifying experience of being in the cold water, fearing sharks and drowning, and praying for sunlight and rescue.
His co-worker attempted to help but had to swim to the breakwater for assistance. A large-scale search was initiated, and the Coast Guard eventually located Carbullido late Monday morning, 8 miles from where he had launched.
Upon rescue, Carbullido's body temperature had dangerously dropped to 86 degrees Fahrenheit, and he is being treated for hypothermia. He expressed immense relief and gratitude, describing his survival as a miracle.
