An urgent search and recovery effort is underway for 11-year-old Joshua Lahai of Richmond, Texas, after he disappeared in the waters off Surfside Beach during the Memorial Day weekend. Authorities have confirmed that the operation, which began as a rescue mission, has since transitioned into a recovery effort following developments at the scene.

According to officials, Joshua was in the water Sunday evening while visiting the beach with his youth football team and family members. Reports indicate that he was approximately 150 yards offshore alongside another child when a powerful wave swept through the area. While the second child was able to return safely to shore, Joshua was pulled under and did not resurface.

Joshua Lahai Richmond, TX, Missing

Joshua Lahai Richmond, TX, Missing

Emergency response teams quickly launched a large-scale search involving multiple agencies, including the U.S. Coast Guard, Texas EquuSearch, the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office, Texas Parks and Wildlife, and local law enforcement units. Helicopters, boats, drones, and shoreline search teams have all been deployed in an ongoing effort to locate the child.

Authorities later recovered a pair of multi-colored swim trunks believed to belong to Joshua, a development that led officials to shift the operation from rescue to recovery. Despite this, search crews have continued working tirelessly, combing the shoreline and surrounding waters in hopes of bringing closure to the family.

Texas EquuSearch founder Tim Miller stated that crews remain committed to continuing the search until Joshua is found, emphasizing the emotional importance of closure for the family. Family members were reportedly present at the scene during the incident, adding to the profound grief surrounding the tragedy.

Officials have also warned about extremely dangerous water conditions at Surfside Beach during the holiday weekend, including strong rip currents, shifting sandbars, and sudden drop-offs. Red flag warnings had been posted in the area, signaling hazardous swimming conditions.

The disappearance has sent shockwaves through both the local Texas community and those following the story nationwide. Friends, relatives, and community members have shared messages of support, prayers, and condolences as the search continues.

Authorities continue to urge anyone with relevant information to come forward as recovery efforts remain active.