The search for four missing boaters off the coast of Bodega Bay has come to a solemn halt. According to a statement from the U.S. Coast Guard, the operation was suspended yesterday, pending new information. The Coast Guard and multiple rescue crews braved the waters for over 57 hours, covering more than 2,100 square miles.
The initial call about the overdue recreational boat came to the Sonoma Sheriff's Office last Saturday. The boat, carrying six individuals, three adults, and three juveniles, had been crabbing before they went silent. Found alive amidst debris washed along the coast, one survivor is currently receiving medical treatment, and unfortunately, a second individual was pronounced deceased at the scene.
According to the U.S. Coast Guard, "The decision to suspend a search is always difficult to make and never done lightly," relayed U.S. Coast Guard Chief Warrant Officer Michael L. Zapawa, the search and rescue coordinator for Coast Guard Sector San Francisco. Zapawa extended thoughts and prayers to the families of the missing.
Among the assembled teams were assets from the Coast Guard Station Bodega Bay, Coast Guard Cutter Tern, and various Coast Guard Air Stations. Assistance was also provided by the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office, the Air Force 129th Rescue Wing, and the Civil Air Patrol, tirelessly combing the area in hopes of locating the missing after a cell phone ping suggested the vicinity of Carmet Beach. The Coast Guard remains ready to act on any new information. Any insights about the missing boaters should contact Coast Guard Sector San Francisco at (415) 399-3502.
