The search for Ty Coone, a kayaker reported missing near Dungeness Spit, has been suspended. Coone's kayak, life vest, and paddle were discovered in the vicinity, but he remains unlocated. According to KING5, Coone initially called 911 to alert authorities that he was "in distress and possibly drowning." The call prompted a search that began on Tuesday afternoon, said the Clallam County Sheriff's Office.
Despite extensive search efforts by the Coast Guard, which included a helicopter, boats, a drone and ground personnel, there has been no sign of the missing kayaker. The search was officially suspended at 10 a.m. on Wednesday. "This is a tragic event and suspending a search without finding the individual you are searching for is one of the hardest decisions to make," Coast Guard Capt. Michael Hunt told The Seattle Times.
The search operation, before its suspension, included additional technological efforts. The Clallam County Sheriff's Office utilized a drone equipped with thermal imaging during a refueling period for Coast Guard assets. Park Rangers, Lighthouse Keepers, and Fire District 3 personnel also contributed to the ground search effort, KOMO News reported.
At the time of his reported drowning, Coone was believed to be wearing a hoodie, rain gear, a backpack, and possibly a hat and sunglasses, as detailed by KING5. Anyone with information that may aid the investigation is urged to contact the U.S. Coast Guard on VHF Channel 16 or call 911
