Tom Gigler, a 56-year-old passenger, reportedly jumped overboard from the Carnival Panorama near the California coast during the ship’s return from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. The Panorama had departed Long Beach, California, on September 13, 2026, for the Mexican coastal resort. Gigler, who was on an anniversary trip with his wife and three children, was last seen on Friday evening, September 18, 2026, and was reported missing by 1:30 pm on September 19.
US Coast Guard Search Effort
The US Coast Guard conducted a search covering approximately 1,707 square miles over nearly 41 hours but found no trace of Gigler. The search was suspended on September
22, 2026. Jessica Davila, chief of incident management for the US Coast Guard south-west district, stated, “Decisions to suspend search operations are never easy and are made with careful consideration of all available information. Our hearts are with those impacted by his loss.” Authorities reviewed camera footage confirming the passenger went overboard.
Shipboard Response and Passenger Reactions
Passengers aboard Carnival Panorama were notified via the ship’s intercom about the missing individual and instructed to return to their rooms for a headcount. An onboard passenger, Misty Hernandez, recounted that the crew repeated Tom Gigler’s name multiple times, prompting concern among guests. The ship reversed its course,
heading back toward Puerto Vallarta during the search. After several hours, the captain informed passengers that the missing person had gone overboard. The ship’s atmosphere shifted noticeably from lively to quiet as passengers processed the situation, with some leaving messages in support of the missing traveler.
Official Statements and Support
Carnival Cruise Line confirmed it is providing support to Tom Gigler’s family. A company spokesperson said, “Our thoughts and prayers are with them and their loved ones.” The cruise line’s efforts included communicating details of the search and assisting the family following the incident.
