OCEAN CITY, MD — The U.S. Coast Guard continues search efforts for a missing mariner whose vessel was located unmanned off the coast of Ocean City.
Coast Guard watchstanders at Sector Maryland-National Capital Region were notified on June 11, 2026 by local law enforcement of a missing individual believed to have departed aboard a 25-foot recreational vessel from Sunset Marina. Information provided to responders indicated the individual was known to frequent fishing areas offshore of Ocean City.
Waterway users are requested to keep a sharp lookout for signs of distress and anyone with information regarding the missing mariner is asked to contact the U.S. Coast Guard East District Command Center at 1-833-453-1269.
After receiving information regarding the vessel's possible location, Coast Guard aircrews launched search assets and located a vessel matching the description of the missing boat. Initial overflights were unable to establish communications with the vessel, and no persons were observed aboard.
Additional Coast Guard aircraft and helicopter crews responded to the scene. A rescue swimmer was deployed to investigate the vessel and confirmed that no one was aboard.
The Coast Guard subsequently assumed search and rescue mission coordinator responsibilities and expanded search efforts utilizing fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and surface assets. Crews deployed Self-Locating Datum Marker Buoys to assist with tracking environmental conditions and vessel drift.
An HC-130J Hercules aircrew from Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City conducted multiple searches and relocated the vessel Friday. The aircrew deployed a second datum marker buoy near the vessel before returning to base.
The Coast Guard Cutter Pompano remains on scene to conduct further investigation and gather information that may assist search and rescue efforts.
Coast Guard assets involved in this case include:
- Coast Guard Station Ocean City response boat crews
- Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City air crews
- Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City air crews
- Coast Guard Sector Maryland-National Capital Region responders
- Local first responders
Search efforts remain ongoing.
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