A San Diego fisherman who had a YouTube channel was found dead in Mexican waters after a search began in the Baja California Sur region last week, according to his family.

The U.S. Coast Guard confirmed to ABC 10News that the Mexican Navy searched for Michael Rijavec after he Michael Rijavec disappeared off the coast of Baja California while kayaking on Tuesday, November 11. The Coast Guard indicated that, after completing the initial search, the Mexican Navy took over the case. The family initially reported on GoFundMe that Rijavec had issued a distress call from his boat off the coast of Baja California at 3 p.m. on November 11. The fundraising campaign was created to help intensify the search, including money for gas, pilots, boats, and additional aircraft. On Sunday, November 16, Rijavec's family posted an update announcing that Michael's body was found in the water near San Cristobal. “Although it is difficult to accept, we are grateful that it brings us some peace,” wrote Gregory Rijavec, Michael's brother. “As we begin to process and reflect on what has happened in the last few days, it becomes clear what the main reason for the search for Mikey was: love.”

Michael managed the YouTube channel SD Fish and Sips, which amassed more than 20,000 subscribers thanks to the 550 videos he posted over the years, showcasing his fishing expeditions.

During the search, the family collaborated with the Mexican Navy, which helped coordinate the deployment of dozens of local vessels and private planes to provide air support.

The family expressed their gratitude for all the support received during the search for Michael.

“Michael’s mission was to spread his positive energy and make everyone he met better, and he succeeded. Mikey prepared us to face this, and if we follow his example, we will not only be okay,but we will get through this. Thank you all, we are very grateful. We love you,” they said.

The GoFundMe campaign for the search raised more than $46,000 thanks to 552 donations.