Body of Missing San Diego YouTuber Recovered Off Baja California, Family Says
The family of San Diego fisherman and YouTube creator Mikey Rijavec confirmed that his body was recovered in waters off Mexico after he went missing during a solo fishing trip.
Rijavec, who produced the SD Fish and Sips channel, issued a mayday from his single-person skiff on Nov. 11 while fishing off the coast of Baja California, according to a family update on GoFundMe. The fundraiser says Rijavec experienced engine trouble; while attempting to fix the problem the motor became dislodged and the skiff flipped. He was able to right the boat, but it had taken on water.
"We know nothing about what happened to Mikey after that," the GoFundMe post said, adding that authorities and local crews acted immediately to search for him.
Search and recovery efforts
U.S. and Mexican authorities deployed vessels and aircraft in the search-and-rescue operation. The family also hired local boats and private planes to assist. The U.S. Coast Guard told NBC News the case was transferred to the Mexican Navy; the Mexican Navy did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
During the four-day search authorities recovered his skiff, but initial efforts to locate Rijavec were unsuccessful. The family formally ended their private search on Nov. 15, saying some details remained unresolved but that every available effort had been made.
Rijavec's brother later reported on the GoFundMe page that his body was found on Sunday near San Cristobal — one day after the family had called off the search.
"Mikey was mindful and present every day, and that allowed him to live a longer life than can be measured on a calendar," the GoFundMe message said. "Mikey prepared us to deal with this, and if we live by his example, we will not only be OK, we will be better."
The family requested privacy while they make arrangements and thank those who participated in or supported the search.
