SEATTLE – The U.S. Coast Guard (USGS) is working to prevent pollution from a sunken ship along the Washington State coastline following its announcement that they suspended the search Friday evening for the captain.
The fishing vessel Captain Raleigh sank near Westport, Washington after a distress call was made by the captain around 8:15 a.m. on Friday, prompting immediate rescue efforts, said a release by the USGS.
Three crew members were rescued from the water by a Coast Guard team from Station Grays Harbor. They were safely brought back for evaluation by EMS.
“This is a tragedy for our fishing communities. I’m thankful our Coast Guard crews were able to save the three crew members quickly, and our hearts are with the family and friends of everyone impacted by this tremendous loss.” Capt. Justin Noggle, commander of Coast Guard Sector Columbia River, said.
The USGS said Captain Raleigh rests in approximately 40 feet of water outside the navigable channel.
Strong currents and ongoing rescue operations prevented the use of booms to contain diesel that spilled from the ship.
Spill responders thoroughly assessed nearby beaches using an electric ATV to quickly navigate the area. Fortunately, no traces of oil were found, the Department of Ecology said.
Despite efforts from a U.S. Navy dive team, challenging conditions have prevented access to the vessel’s interior, said the release.
The Coast Guard, along with the Washington Department of Ecology, are now working with a commercial team to develop a salvage plan, USGS added.
