WILLEMSTAD – The diver who went missing Sunday evening near Piscadera Bay was found dead Monday morning, police spokesperson Maurits Rosalina has confirmed. The Coast Guard discovered the body near Piscadera Bay and brought it ashore at Boka Sami. 

The victim has been identified as Jan Verhaegen, a 39-year-old Belgian national. Although not originally from Curaçao, Verhaegen had been living on the island for many years. 

According to authorities, Verhaegen went diving alone on Sunday, as he often did. When he failed to return at the agreed-upon time, family and friends raised the alarm. The Coast Guard launched an extensive search operation involving a helicopter, a Dash patrol aircraft, a Metal Shark vessel, six divers, and several boats from the surrounding area. 

Friends and acquaintances of Verhaegen noted that he was very familiar with the waters around Piscadera and always adhered to strict diving schedules. His failure to return was therefore considered highly alarming. 

The search was suspended Sunday evening due to darkness and resumed early Monday morning. Shortly after, Verhaegen’s body was located. 

Authorities have not yet released information about the cause of death. An investigation is ongoing.