The Coast Guard concluded its search efforts for three missing boaters after rescuing one survivor and recovering two deceased from the water approximately four miles east of St. Lawrence Island on Monday.
A Coast Guard HC-130 Hercules aircrew from Air Station Kodiak located the survivor clinging to the capsized vessel around 3 p.m., according to the Coast Guard Arctic District. The crew deployed a raft with survival equipment and guided a nearby civilian vessel to the scene.
The 15-year-old survivor was rescued from the overturned skiff showing symptoms of hypothermia. The two deceased were recovered from the water unresponsive, taken aboard the good Samaritan vessel Northwest Explorer, and transported to Nome along with the survivor.
The Coast Guard Arctic District coordinated the search with the Alaska Rescue Coordination Center, the Alaska Air National Guard's 176th Wing units, the 211th Rescue Squadron and 212th Rescue Squadron from Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska State Troopers, and local authorities in Savoonga. Multiple aircraft assisted, including two HC-130s, two MH-60 Jayhawk helicopters from Air Station Kodiak, and a 211th RQS HC-130 with 212th RQS Guardian Angels.
Rear Admiral Bob Little, commander of the Arctic District, said the service was grateful for the efforts of the Northwest Explorer and federal, state, and local first responders. "Our hearts go out to the families, friends, and communities affected by the tragic loss of these two mariners," he said.