July 8, 2026 10:50 a.m. 

A U.S. Navy Pilot missing after a helicopter’s emergency landing in the Arabian Sea on July 1st, has been identified as an Oakland, Oregon native.

A release from Naval Air Force Atlantic Public Affairs said the man is Commander Gabriel Edwards, commanding officer of the Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron. He is presumed deceased.

Rear Admiral Todd Cimicata, commander, Carrier Strike Group 10 said, “The thoughts and prayers of every member of the Carrier Strike Group 10 team are with the Edwards family. While we are far from home, our heartfelt support remains at your side”.

After more than 102 hours of continuous search and rescue efforts covering over 14,000 square miles, the U.S. Navy suspended search efforts in the Arabian Sea on July 5th. The extensive search involved ships and aircraft from two carrier strike groups, two Patrol and Reconnaissance Squadrons flying P-8A Poseidon aircraft and multiple U.S. Air Force aircraft.

Gabriel Edwards assumed command of HSC-5, the “Nightdippers” in July 2025 as part of a long Navy career. Edwards is survived by his wife Rebecca, two children, a large extended family and brothers and sisters in the naval aviation community.

The Navy said the cause of the incident remains under investigation. There is no indication the emergency was caused by hostile action.