Boating Accident Coos River, Nov. 24

News release Coos Co. Sheriff’s Office.  On November 22, 2016 at 4:42 pm the Coos County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to a call regarding a recreational boat that sank on the south Coos River near mile post 7.5.  The 911 caller, an employee of Weyerhaeuser Timber Company indicated one person was still in the river with the submerged 14’0” aluminum boat. Weyerhaeuser Employee’s as well as a member of Coos Bay Timber Operators located the 2nd recreational boater who was hugging the bank. The Sheriff’s Office responded to the location and determined a need for Marine assets.  The steep terrain at the location prevented the personnel at the location from accessing the stranded boater from the roadway. The North Bend Fire Department launched two boats and accessed the stranded boater.  The second boater was retrieved and both boaters were transported to the Bay Area Hospital because of exposure related issues. The 2 men were identified as 35 year old Thomas Daugherty of North Bend and 20 year old Christopher Ross of Coos Bay.  The accident is still under investigation by the Sheriff’s Office Marine Division. The Sheriff’s Office urges the public exercise good common sense when boating. Have all of the necessary mandated safety gear. Boaters should be aware many of the local tributaries have changed and have submerged trees due to increased rain fall and stormy conditions in the area.  Sheriff’s Statement on Boating Mishap – On November 22, 2016 at around 4:42 P.M. the Sheriff’s Office responded to a boating accident on Coos River at or near Mile Post 7.5. Both occupants of the small boat ended up in the water and in danger of serious injury or death. However thanks to the extraordinary efforts of unnamed employees from both the Weyerhaeuser and Coos Bay Timber Operators, along with the efforts of the North Bend Fire Department both subject were successfully rescue.  On behalf of the citizens, community and the Sheriff’s Office, I would like to express our great appreciate to the many unnamed heroes in our community that unselfishly come to the aid of those in need. Thank to you a tragedy was averted and all those involved have the opportunity to truly have a thankful Thanksgiving.  Craig Zanni – Sheriff.