The U.S. Coast Guard and multiple rescue teams are searching for a 35-year-old Yacolt, Washington, man whose vessel sank in rough waters near Oak Harbor.
On Tuesday, the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound received a report of a 37-foot cabin cruiser struggling in stormy weather near North Whidbey Island.
North Whidbey Fire and Rescue initially assisted the vessel, bringing it to safe harbor in Oak Harbor.
The operator chose to remain aboard.
Hours later, the individual contacted dispatch again, reporting his vessel was taking on water after returning to sea.
The Coast Guard issued an urgent marine broadcast and launched a MH-65 helicopter from Air Station Port Angeles, while North Whidbey Fire and Rescue deployed marine assets.
Rescuers witnessed the vessel sink below the waterline, and the operator was seen flashing a light from the water.
Despite efforts to locate the man, responders lost sight of him.
The Coast Guard continued the search overnight using night-vision goggles, with assistance from a Navy MH-60 helicopter at first light and a USCG response boat from Station Bellingham.
The Island County Sheriff’s Office also joined the effort.
The partially submerged vessel was located east of Maylor Point in Oak Harbor.
The search area has spanned 74 square miles but has not yet yielded results.
The search continued until dusk on December 18.
The Coast Guard and local authorities remind mariners to take precautions in severe weather and carry emergency equipment when venturing onto the water.
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