Coast Guard Suspends Search For Missing Fisherman

The Coast Guard suspended its search a missing fisherman near Newport, Oregon, at 10:15 a.m., Monday August 11. Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Columbia River received a report at approximately 4 p.m., Sunday August 10th, reporting that the 40-foot fishing vessel Das Bug, with four people onboard, had taken on water and capsized while transiting inbound through the Yaquina Bay Jetty.

Coast Guard Station Yaquina Bay responded immediately with their 47 foot motor lifeboat. Upon Coast Guard arrival, they found debris in the ocean. Three individuals were rescued from the water and were transferred to emergency medical services, then they were taken to Samaritan Pacific Communities Hospital and treated for hypothermia. According to the Coast Guard two crewmembers had life jackets on and one did not, the missing fisherman was also reported to not have life jacket on.

These situations happen so quickly, and often there is not time to find and don a life jacket when a boating emergency is happening. Even though life jackets are required to be on board, they are not always worn when crews are working. Wearing a life jacket when you're out on the water is something Taunette Dixon with Newport Fisherman's Wives says is very important, "It's not only the difference between if something happens to the boat, it's also the difference of if someone does not survive, it aids in recovery." Dixon added "Because recovery is so important to these families when they have lost a loved one."

47-foot Motor Lifeboat crews from Coast Guard Station Yaquina Bay and an MH-65 Dolphin crew from Coast Guard Air Station North Bend conducted evening searches Sunday night until sunset for the missing man and again at first light the search continued by the MH-65 Dolphin crew from Coast Guard Air Station North Bend with no signs of the missing fisherman prior to suspension of the search Monday around 10am.  

“Suspending a search without finding the person you have been looking for is always one of the most difficult decisions we have to make,” said Coast Guard Lt. Cdr. Jacqueline Hunnicutt, search and rescue mission coordinator for Coast Guard Sector Columbia River. “Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”  

Rescue crews searched for eight hours, covering a total of 54 square miles. Weather on scene was reported to be 7-foot swells and 13 knot winds. Water temperature was reported at 49-52 degrees. Taunette said they have been working closely with the family of the missing crewmember. Those who would like to donate to help can do so by going to the Newport Fishermen's Wives Website