Search crews look for missing Arroyo Grande man at Pirate’s Cove
Authorities said the incident is not considered suspicious at this time
– On May 12 at approximately 6:15 p.m., sheriff’s deputies responded to a missing person report at Pirates Cove in Avila Beach.
The missing person was identified as 72-year-old Gary Michael Kiehl of Arroyo Grande.
Friends reported they became concerned when Kiehl was supposed to pick someone up May 12 at the Grover Beach train station but failed to arrive. The last known contact with Kiehl was May 11 at 2 p.m.
Kiehl’s vehicle was later discovered unoccupied at the Cave Landing parking lot in Avila Beach.
The Sheriff’s Search and Rescue team responded to the location and began searching for Kiehl. The search continued into the overnight hours of May 13. Search crews returned Wednesday morning to continue operations.
Authorities said the search is a joint operation involving the cellular forensic team FALCON from the County Office of Emergency Services, a Coast Guard helicopter and cutter, Harbor Patrol, and Cal Fire water rescue crews.
Kiehl is described as a White male, 5 feet 10 inches tall, weighing 180 pounds, with brown hair and hazel eyes. Authorities said Kiehl has no history of prior missing person reports and is known to enjoy walking along the cliffs in the Pirates Cove area.
Authorities said the incident is not considered suspicious at this time.
Anyone with information regarding Kiehl’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office at (805) 781-4550.
