(KRON) -- After a search of more than 15 hours, the swimmer who went missing Sunday at Lovers Point Beach in Pacific Grove has been pronounced deceased, according to a joint statement from the U.S. Coast Guard, Pacific Grove police and Monterey Fire Department. The swimmer was identified as 55-year -old Erica Fox, the release states. The Monterey County woman's family has been notified by authorities. Authorities said Monday night the search for Fox has been suspended. Fox was first reported missing Sunday afternoon when authorities received a call about her disappearance. Latest weather: Flood concerns grow as second round of heavy rain moves toward the Bay Area Authorities did not confirm whether or not Fox was attacked by a shark. KRON4 spoke with a United States Coast Guard official Sunday night, who said Fox was swimming with a group. The official tells KRON4 that a report of a shark attack was received, but the Coast Guard did not locate evidence of one. According to a press release, two witnesses said the swimmer "may have encountered a shark." The search, which covered more than 84 square nautical miles, led to the closure of Lovers Point Beach, which remains closed until Tuesday. McAbee and San Carlos beaches in Monterey County are also closed until then. Until Tuesday, a beach advisory remains in place for Asilomar State Beach, Monterey Municipal Beach, Del Monte Beach and Monterey State Beach. Signs block off access to Lovers Point Beach on the same day of a shark attack. (KRON4 photo / Justin Campbell) Bay Area man hospitalized from surfing accident, GoFundMe created “The Coast Guard extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones affected by this tragic incident,” said USCG Captain Jordan Baldueza. "On behalf of the cities of Monterey and Pacific Grove and our first responders, we extend our heartfelt sympathies to Erica’s family and loved ones," said Monterey Fire Chief Andrew Miller. "This is a deeply felt tragedy for our community. We are grateful to all the agencies and first responders who joined the search and provided their support during this incident." Pacific Grove police will continue to investigate the circumstances around Fox's disappearance and death. ...read more read less