Coast Guard announces formal investigation into F/V Mary B II capsizing, Jan. 16

SEATTLE – The Coast Guard announced today a formal marine casualty investigation has been convened into the marine casualty of the fishing vessel Mary B II which capsized off Newport, Oregon, January 9, 2019, resulting in the loss of three lives and loss of the vessel. Rear Adm. David Throop, Coast Guard 13th District Commander, authorized the investigation pursuant to the authority contained in Title 46, United States Code, Section 6301 and the regulations promulgated thereunder. The crew of the 42-foot fishing vessel Mary B II were attempting to cross the Yaquina Bay Bar when the vessel capsized with all three crewmembers on board. The marine casualty investigation will be led by Cmdr. Karen Denny, the executive officer of Marine Safety Unit Portland. Denny, who has served in the Coast Guard for 18 years, has extensive experience in commercial fishing vessel safety and marine casualty investigations. Upon completion of the investigation, Denny will issue a report of investigation with collected evidence, established facts and conclusions with possible safety recommendations to prevent future incidents.