Teenage baseball star, 18, missing after jumping off cruise ship 'as a dare'
A teenage baseball star is missing at sea after jumping off a cruise "as a dare", it is claimed.
Cameron Robbins, 18, from Louisiana, US, was on a graduate boating excursion in the Bahamas on May 24 when he was dared to jump overboard, according to witnesses.
The teen, who had just graduated days ago from the University Laboratory School in Baton Rogue, was filmed jumping into the water, just a few feet from the boat, before disappearing.
The US Coast Guard had been searching for Cameron since he was reported missing on Wednesday but the search was called off on Friday night.
Lt. Cmdr. Matthew Spado, Coast Guard liaison officer to the Bahamas, revealed multiple agency's had been deployed to look for Cameron.
Nicola Bulley's children 'cried their eyes out' after being told 'mummy's lost'He said: "U.S. Coast Guard District Seven deployed multiple search and rescue assets in response to an agency assistance request from our partners in the Royal Bahamas Defence Force.
"'Our Coast Guard command centre and aircrews based in Miami supported RBDF search and rescue efforts since the initial report Wednesday evening, and continued through Friday evening.
'We were informed by the RBDF this evening that they were suspending the active search efforts pending further developments, and were not requesting further Coast Guard assistance after notifying the Robbins family.
"We offer our sincerest condolences to Cameron Robbins' family and friends."
A GoFundMe page has been set up for the teenager's family who are going through an "unimaginable situation."
The fundraiser said: "Cameron's mother, Shari is an indescribably amazing teacher and her kindness and devotion has helped countless children throughout her career.
"Please donate as you can and share this fundraiser to support her and her family through this unimaginable situation.
"Devastated family continued to pray and hope for Cameron's return: 'Please continue to pray for Cameron, Cassie, Cole, Shari and Will. My heart is so heavy."
Cameron's baseball coach paid tribute to the teenager and called him a "fierce competitor."
Justin Morgan said: "Cameron is a kid who is truly loved by his teammates, teachers, and fellow classmates.
Mum appeared 'completely normal' moments before vanishing while walking dog"He is a fierce competitor on the baseball field. He is a hard worker both on and off of the playing field.
"Our school community is struggling right now but hoping for the very best.
"Our thoughts and prayers have been and will remain with the Robbins family during this difficult time."
University Lab School Director Kevin George said Cameron attended the school for all thirteen years of his education.
They are also providing support to students who are struggling with his disappearance.
Mr George said: "The University Lab School Community is praying for the best possible outcome of this situation.
"In times like these, we must come together and support each other. Words fall short of expressing the worry our entire school community is feeling.
"'Extra counsellors will be available on campus to speak with students and faculty who are struggling to process this news.
"Our thoughts are with the Robbins family, and we ask that you keep them in your thoughts as well."