SEATTLE — A Coast Guard MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Station Port Angeles located and recovered the missing kayaker near Bainbridge Island, Monday.
A Coast Guard rescue swimmer recovered the unresponsive man and performed CPR while transiting to the Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, where he was transferred to awaiting medical personnel.
Unfortunately, a follow up with Harborview Medical Center personnel revealed 52-year-old Mark Gianneschi, who was reported to be in critical condition upon arriving to the hospital, was later pronounced deceased. Next of kin has been notified.
“Our hearts go out to the friends and family of Mr. Gianneschi,” said Commander Brian Meier of Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound. “As life savers, we are in the business of bringing families back together after an emergency at sea. When the worst happens, which results in a loss of life, we are all impacted.”
Gianneschi was wearing a lifejacket when found in the water approximately 1,600 yards from his kayak. The Coast Guard encourages all boaters to be properly outfitted with emergency equipment before setting out to sea, including wearing appropriate gear for cold water survival.
To read the original press release click here: http://www.uscgnews.com/go/doc/4007/2435978/