Captain Missing, 6 Rescued After Boat Capsizes On Columbia River
A tragic boating accident occurred on Wednesday morning when a fishing guide boat capsized near the mouth of the White Salmon River, leaving one person missing and six others rescued.
Six Rescued, Captain Remains Unaccounted
The incident took place around 11:30 a.m. on the Columbia River, according to the Hood River County Sheriff’s Office (HRCSO). Law enforcement agencies, including the HRCSO, quickly responded to the scene and pulled six individuals from the water, all of whom had been on board the boat. Two of the rescued individuals were taken to the hospital for treatment, while the remaining four were safely brought ashore. Despite the rescue efforts, the captain of the boat, the only person still unaccounted for, remains missing.
Search Efforts to Continue
The boat involved in the incident was a 24-foot North River fishing vessel, which was last seen near a green navigation buoy close to the White Salmon inlet. The HRCSO, along with other local authorities, is leading a coordinated search and rescue operation. The search for the missing captain will resume on Thursday, utilizing additional resources to locate him. As of Wednesday, the names of those involved have not been publicly released out of respect for the families, according to the Hood River Police. The sheriff’s office has indicated that the investigation is ongoing, and more details may emerge as the search continues.
Ongoing Investigation
The cause of the boat capsizing is still under investigation. Officials have yet to determine what caused the fishing boat to overturn in the Columbia River, a waterway known for its unpredictable currents and occasionally hazardous conditions. Authorities will be examining whether weather, mechanical issues, or human error may have contributed to the accident. The HRCSO and other agencies are working diligently to gather information and continue the search efforts. Family members of the missing captain and the rescued passengers are anxiously awaiting updates as the search for answers continues.
Focus on Safety and Support for Families
This tragic event highlights the potential dangers of recreational and professional fishing on large bodies of water like the Columbia River. Local authorities are reminding the public to always prioritize safety by wearing life jackets and ensuring that all boating equipment is in proper working condition. As search and rescue operations proceed, law enforcement remains committed to finding the missing captain and providing support to the affected families.
As the investigation unfolds, the community holds out hope for closure and prays for the captain’s safe return. The Hood River County Sheriff’s Office, alongside various agencies, will continue their search efforts, determined to bring an end to the uncertainty surrounding the incident.
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