Coast Guard rescues three fisherman from vessel taking on water near Akutan, Alaska

News Release

February 13, 2017 U.S. Coast Guard 17th District Alaska Contact: 17th District Public Affairs Office: (907) 463-2065 After Hours: (907)  209-8731

Coast Guard rescues three fisherman from vessel taking on water near Akutan, Alaska

JUNEAU, Alaska — A Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew rescued three people from the fishing vessel Predator after it ran aground and was taking on water near Akutan Harbor, Alaska, Monday morning.

The Jayhawk crew arrived on scene, hoisted the three crewmembers and safely transported them to Akutan with no medical concerns reported.

Coast Guard 17th District Command Center watchstanders were notified by Coast Guard Sector Anchorage watchstanders that the Predator ran hard aground resulting in an eight-inch crack in the hull. As a result, the Predator began taking on water and the crew was unable to keep up with the flooding utilizing dewatering pumps. Watchstanders quickly diverted a Coast Guard Jayhawk helicopter crew to the scene.

“This case is a perfect example of the ever-changing dynamic of search and rescue in Alaska and how well trained our personnel are to respond,” said Lt. Scott Verhage, Jayhawk helicopter co-pilot. “The crew of the Predator was well prepared, having all the safety equipment necessary to help us find them and execute the rescue.”

Weather on scene at the time of the rescue was 25 mile per hour winds and 10-foot seas.

 

-USCG-