In-water search for boy suspended

Before the official announcement was made Wednesday afternoon, it was apparent that, in some ways, the searchers were packing it in.

Boats were being pulled from the water, police tape surrounding the search area was drooping in places and all faces were noticeably grim.

As the family of 8-year-old Trejon Fite huddled in a tarp tent, Salt Lake Fire spokesman Mark Bednarik relayed the news that had just been given to the family. The search for Trejon is "transitioning at this time," moving "away from the in-water operation" to a perimeter search and a missing persons investigation, he said.

Trejon's case will be turned over to the Salt Lake Police Department, but crews will continue to walk the banks of the canal using what technology they can and employing the use of search dogs.

"There's no timeline set for the search," Bednarik said. "They will commit people based on need and new evidence."

The search for Trejon has been ongoing since the boy fell into the canal at the intersection of Redwood Road and California Avenue Saturday. Salt Lake Police Lt. Dave Hoffman said the decision to change the focus of the search should not raise any questions about the known facts.

"We don't believe there was any foul play at all, it was just a tragic accident," Hoffman said. "We have some good witnesses that saw Trejon crossing the river."

A number of methods were used in the canal search, including the use of "state-of-the-art" sonar technology, which Bednarik said revealed areas of interest that were probed Wednesday morning. After these efforts came up empty, the decision was made to transfer the effort to the police and cease the in-water efforts.

A friend of the family said that the family was not ready to make any statements and wanted some privacy to process the new information.

"Obviously, they are upset and concerned," Bednarik said. "And none of the searchers want to go away without finding the boy. They're upset, but they understand the safety concerns."

In spite of the decision to suspend the search, Hoffman said they're still committed to this case.

"We'll be following up on leads and assisting on the perimeter search, and hopefully we'll bring this to a close."

Anyone with any information regarding Trejon Fite has been asked to contact police at 801-799-3000.

E-MAIL: emorgan@desnews.com