Assuming somehow she has ended up in the ocean, what’s the likelihood her body would wash up on the beach somewhere? I’m more familiar with lake and river drownings, and can’t seem to think of any cases with ocean drownings. Others know examples?
Just curious if potentially she may wash up to shore, and the family could have some closure?
This is what ChatGPT says:
The likelihood of a body washing up on the beach in Punta Cana, or any coastal area, depends on several factors, including the ocean currents, the condition of the body, and the weather conditions at the time. Here are some key considerations:
1. **Ocean Currents**: The Caribbean Sea has complex currents, but generally, the water around Punta Cana flows in an east-to-west direction. If the body is carried by the currents, it could potentially wash up on a beach, but how quickly and where is uncertain.
2. **Time**: The body could take anywhere from a few hours to several days or more to wash up, depending on the currents and the condition of the body. However, decomposition and water temperature play a role; colder waters slow decomposition, while warmer waters accelerate it.
3. **Weather**: Strong winds, storms, or high waves might help push the body closer to shore, especially if the wave that caused the drowning was significant. On the other hand, calm weather and weak currents might prevent the body from washing ashore quickly.
4. **Body Condition**: If the person drowned and was submerged for an extended period, there might be less buoyancy, and the body might not immediately float. Over time, however, decomposition gases can cause the body to rise to the surface.
In summary, while there is a chance that the body might wash up on the beach due to the factors mentioned, it is difficult to predict exactly where or when it would happen. In some cases, bodies may be carried away by currents and never wash ashore. Local authorities often work with coast guard services to search for missing individuals, and sometimes advanced technology like sonar is used to assist in recovery efforts.
I tend to agree with US LE that it is too soon to suspect only drowning. A dark beach with cctv not working due to power outage and the nearby ocean, coupled with a drunk man and a possibly drunk woman, makes it extremely convenient for a criminal to act.
JMO
