Missing Scuba Diver's body found on Bay Point Island

After two weeks of searching, Alan Devier’s body was found Mother’s Day at Bay Point off the coast of St. Helena Island

The body of a missing scuba diver, last seen diving off Hilton Head Island in Port Royal Sound, has been found.

The body of Alan Devier, 49, of North Charleston, was discovered on Bay Point Island between 3:30 and 4 p.m. Sunday when a call came in to 911, according to David Lucas, regional public information coordinator for S.C. Department of Natural Resources.

The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office had confirmed the body’s identity and notified Devier’s family, Lucas said on Monday.

Known to hunt for fossils and sharks teeth in Port Royal Sound, Devier was last seen diving about three miles offshore near the entrance of Port Royal Sound on Tuesday, April 28, officials said earlier.

The United States Coast Guard suspended its search on Sunday, May 3, after searching more than 7,589 square miles. Multiple agencies across several states assisted in the search but were unable to locate Devier.

Boaters in the area spotted the body on Sunday in an area of Bay Point Island that is difficult to access, Lucas said. The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, S.C. Department of Natural Resources and Beaufort County Marine Rescue Squadron assisted in the recovery.

An autopsy is scheduled for Wednesday at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, Lucas said.

Story by Mindy Lucas for The Island News

Our sincere condolences to Alan’s family and friends. We are thankful and grateful for the continuing efforts of our community fisherman, volunteers, rescuers, and Coast Guard that have been tirelessly searching for him to bring them all peace.

Photo ESPB Staff