July 31, 2017 - 7:25 PM
NORFOLK, Va. - The world's largest navy base has resumed normal operations after reports of a possible trespassing scuba diver appear to be unfounded.
The U.S. Navy said in a statement Monday that all ships were clear after an extensive search that involved boats, helicopters and other personnel.
Earlier in the day, sailors on watch at Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia reported seeing a possible diver in a secured area near one of its piers. A security gate sits in the water surrounding the base and the 14 piers to which warships dock.
Nearly 60 ships are based in Norfolk, including the fleet's newest and most technologically advanced aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford.
The carrier returned to its pier recently after successfully testing new equipment that launches and lands jet fighters.
News from © The Associated Press, 2017