Search Suspended After Fishing Vessel Capsizes in Alaska

Five people remain missing after the fishing vessel Wind Walker capsized in Alaskan waters during a severe storm on Sunday.

At a Glance

A fishing boat named Wind Walker capsized near Glacier National Park in Alaska.
The U.S. Coast Guard suspended a search for five missing people.
Communication was lost after a mayday call was sent by the crew during the storm.
Rough weather and a winter storm warning posed challenges for the rescue efforts.

Incident Details and the Suspended Search

The fishing vessel Wind Walker capsized near Glacier National Park in Alaska on Sunday, leaving five individuals unaccounted for. The tragic incident prompted a swift response from the U.S. Coast Guard, who were tasked with finding the missing crew amid difficult weather conditions. On Monday, December 2, the search was suspended after efforts to find the missing individuals failed.

A distress call was dispatched from the Wind Walker around 12:10 a.m. as harsh weather conditions overwhelmed the vessel near Point Couverden, southwest of Juneau, Alaska. Unfortunately, no further communication was possible after the initial mayday. An emergency signal originated from the Icy Strait south of Point Couverden, offering crucial information for the search operation.

Challenges in Rescue Efforts

The Coast Guard’s mission faced numerous hindrances, including formidable weather, as heavy snow and winds reaching up to 60 mph battered the search area. Additionally, the region was under a winter storm warning, making the rescue operation even more perilous.

Moreover, cold-water immersion suits and strobe lights found in the water indicated attempts to survive the frigid conditions. Good Samaritans on the AMHS Hubbard ferry also responded promptly to the mayday call, supporting Coast Guard attempts to locate any signs of the missing.

Efforts and the Failed Search

The Coast Guard deployed significant resources, including an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter and a response boat, to assist in the search for the missing crew. Diverse support stemmed from various channels, such as the emergency position-indicating radio beacon alerts, strobe lights, and good-willed civilians aiding the rescue operation.

Chief Warrant Officer James Koon shared the news of the search’s suspension, saying, “We stand in sorrow and solidarity with the friends and family of the people we were not able to find over the past 24 hours.” He expressed his gratitude toward the crews that worked hard to locate the missing people and expressed his condolences to the affected loved ones.