ASTORIA, Ore. — The Coast Guard said Monday night it has suspended its search for a missing pilot after a Beechcraft B95 aircraft crashed into the Pacific Ocean near Yaquina Head Lighthouse in Newport Monday afternoon.

The twin-engine plane was carrying a 78-year-old male pilot who remains missing.

Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Columbia River received the initial report at 12:54 p.m., and immediately dispatched search and rescue crews.

Responding assets included two 47-foot motor lifeboats from Station Yaquina Bay, MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crews from Air Facility Newport and Air Station North Bend, local emergency responders and good Samaritan vessels in the area.

Crews conducted 12 hours of searches, covering 124 square miles.

The plane reportedly entered the water at a high rate of speed and sank, with no one seen disembarking the aircraft.

“Suspending a search is an incredibly difficult decision, and it is one we never make lightly,” said Lt. Nick Torres, Search and Rescue Mission Commander for Sector Columbia River. “Our hearts go out to the pilot’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

The cause of the crash is under investigation. Questions about the investigation or identity of the pilot should be directed to the National Transportation Safety Board and Newport Police Department.