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An American man, Chris Ankele, is missing, and his Canadian friend, Braydon Bretzer, has been found dead after the two disappeared from Zicatela Beach in Puerto Escondido, Mexico. Authorities reported that the men were seen in dangerous waters before being swept away by a current. Bretzer's body was discovered floating in the water on Monday (May 26), while Ankele remains unaccounted for as of Thursday (May 29).
The Oaxaca Civil Protection unit, along with lifeguards, initiated a search and rescue mission but have not yet located Ankele. The San Pedro Mixtepec Mayor's office stated, "Search efforts continue to determine the whereabouts of the second tourist, following the protocols established in the sea search plan."
Zicatela Beach, known for its massive waves, is popular among surfers but is not ideal for swimming. This incident is not isolated; the beach has seen similar tragedies in the past, including the drowning of Miguel Robles in April and Andra Kitsu in May 2023.
Bretzer, a former youth soccer coach and freelance marketing consultant, was remembered fondly by his friend Graeme Bouvier, who set up a fundraiser to help repatriate Bretzer's remains to Canada. Bouvier wrote, "Braydon lived life to the fullest. He had a contagious energy, and a heart that made space for everyone."
Tourism businesses in the area have been urged to remain vigilant about weather conditions, and both locals and tourists are advised to heed lifeguard warnings.