Search Suspended, March 24

The Coast Guard suspended the search for the master of the fishing trawler Patty A J, a vessel that capsized between the Coos Bay Bar jetties near Charleston, Wednesday, March 23. The search was suspended at 7 p.m. after two MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crews from Coast Guard Air Station North Bend and two 47-foot Motor Life Boat crews from Coast Guard Station Coos Bay searched for 11 hours in conjunction with divers from the Bandon and Airport Dive Team. “It is with deep regret the Coast Guard has suspended the search for the vessel master of the vessel Patty A J,” says Capt. Todd Trimpert, commander, Coast Guard Sector North Bend. “Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to those affected by this terrible tragedy and our gratitude extended to all those involved.” Divers made a second attempt when the water was slack to look for the missing fisherman, but conditions around the vessel continued to be too dangerous. A buoy has been placed to mark the location of the now sunken vessel.