The active search for Master Sailor Duane Earle has concluded without locating him.

MS Earle was deployed in Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Winnipeg, when it's believed he accidentally went overboard in the early morning hours of Monday, December 16, in rough seas.

The Department of National Defence says in a release that the search concluded at 5:37 p.m. Pacific Standard Time on Tuesday. "Sadly, he has not been found," the release says.

"Master Sailor Earle’s next of kin have been notified and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) are providing his family with the support needed to help them through this difficult time. His family is currently in their grieving process as a result of this tragic loss." The family has asked for privacy at this time.

“It is with a heavy heart that we announce that we have concluded our active search for Master Sailor Earle," says Rear-Admiral Brian Santarpia, Maritime Component Commander.

"This decision was not taken lightly, however after extensive coverage of the search area we have not been able to locate him. I would also like to thank our allies who were involved in the search for Master Sailor Earle. They have been steadfast in their support to HMCS Winnipeg. Right now our focus remains on supporting his family, his friends and shipmates as they work through this very challenging time and I offer my deepest sympathies.”

The DND says now that the search has concluded, HMCS Winnipeg will continue their transit home to Esquimalt, B.C. Details of their arrival will be communicated in the near future.

“These have been an extremely difficult couple of days for the ship’s company," says Commander Mike Stefanson, Commanding Officer HMCS Winnipeg. "We have completed a challenging deployment, in very uncertain times both at home and overseas, and we will continue to stand together through this incredibly sad time. I would like to offer my sympathies to the family and friends of Master Sailor Earle. He will be sorely missed.”

"It is with a heavy heart that the search for Master Sailor Duane Earle has concluded," says Minister of National Defence, Harjit Sajjan. "I want to provide the family, friends and loved ones of MS Earle my profound condolences. This loss, so close to the holidays, is felt by the entire Defence Team and by all Canadians."

The CAF will conduct an investigation into the circumstances of how MS Earle went missing.

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