Coast Guard calls off search for missing kayaker

The Coast Guard has called off its search for a missing kayaker who was last seen in Gloucester Point, Virginia.

The 58-year-old man, reported missing by his wife after not returning from a kayaking trip on Monday, was last seen near the Gloucester Point Boat Ramp on Tuesday.

Ballard's wife told authorities that her husband left their home Monday with a 12-foot, forest green, sit-in kayak. His vehicle was found parked near the boat ramp, but there was no sign of him or his kayak.

Virginia Marine Police began searching for Ballard just before 11 a.m. on Tuesday. The Gloucester County Sheriff's Office, and the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries also assisted in the search.

Crews searched 265 square nautical miles, but have not found the boater.

The search was called off Tuesday night, because it was too dark and officials believe they've searched everywhere they could look.

The crews do not plan on resuming the search in the morning, but may pick it back up again if someone finds the missing man's kayak.

If you have any information on Ballard's whereabouts or his kayak, contact the Sector Hampton Roads Command Center at (757) 668-5555.