SEATTLE — The U.S. Coast Guard, Canadian coast guard and a good Samaritan responded to a vessel taking on water near Point Roberts, Washington, Monday.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound received a report of a 25-foot skiff taking on water with two people on board at 3:57 p.m. in the vicinity of the red can buoy near Point Roberts.
Watchstanders transmitted an urgent marine information broadcast and directed the launch of rescue crews from Coast Guard Station Bellingham and Coast Guard Air Station Port Angeles. The Canadian coast guard also responded with the Canadian Coast Guard Ship SIYAY.
A good Samaritan responded to the broadcast and recovered one of fisherman from the water in good condition. They also assisted rescue crews in locating the second fisherman. Lifesaving measures were attempted by U.S. Coast Guard and Canadian coast guard members. The individual was then transferred to EMS at Blaine Harbor and declared deceased.
"This rescue highlights the importance of our Candian partners and good Samaritans out on the water willing to offer their assistance in an emergency,” said Capt. Micheal Hunt, search and rescue mission coordinator for Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound. “Conditions on the water can change rapidly, and someone in the right place at the right time can make all the difference.”
Weather on scene was reported to be 2-foot seas and 15 knot winds.
-USCG-