Imagery Available: Coast Guard rescues stranded kayaker off rocks near Sunset Bay State Park

News Release

U.S. Coast Guard 13th District PA Detachment Astoria Contact: Coast Guard PA Detachment Astoria Office: (503) 861-6380 After Hours: (206) 220-7237 PA Detachment Astoria online newsroom

Coast Guard rescues stranded kayaker off rocks near Sunset Bay State Park

Editors' Note: Click on images to download high resolution version.

NORTH BEND, Ore. — A Coast Guard aircrew rescued a stranded kayaker near Qochyax Island at Sunset Bay State Park near Charleston, Oregon, Friday evening.

An aircrew aboard an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter from Sector North Bend safely hoisted the 44-year-old male, who was reportedly uninjured, and transferred him back to his vehicle and his 15-year-old son.

Sector North Bend watchstanders received a call at 6:05 p.m. from a park ranger who reported seeing someone on the island waving a kayak paddle in distress. Station Coos Bay launched a 47-foot Motor Life Boat at 6:18 p.m. The crew arrived at 6:48 p.m. but were unable to get to him due to the rocks. 

In response, Sector North Bend launched an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew at 7:11 p.m. It arrived five minutes later and hoisted the man off the island. 

The kayaker reported that he had capsized and swam to the island. He reportedly had a lifejacket on. His 15-year-old son attempted a rescue but was unsuccessful and was unable to notify or reach help.

The man’s kayak was eventually recovered and returned to him.

 

-USCG-