A Coast Guard aircrew rescued a stranded kayaker near Qochyax Island at Sunset Bay State Park near Charleston, Oregon, Friday evening, Aug. 3. 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. The Coast Guard reminds kayakers and other boaters to carry a VHF-FM radio or other communication device to call for help if an emergency happens. The on scene sea and weather conditions included 3-foot seas and light wind.
