LOS ANGELES — The Coast Guard is assisting a boater in distress and searching for a second boater near Catalina Island, Thursday, June 2, 2016.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach received notification from a boater aboard a 15-foot skiff near China Point, stating that a rogue wave had caused both passengers to fall into the water.
Neither boater was wearing a lifejacket. One boater was able to safely make his way back to the vessel where he was able to alert the Coast Guard of the boater’s distress. He also stated that he was experiencing a medical emergency and the other boater who entered the water had not yet surfaced.
Coast Guard watchstanders immediately launched a MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Group Point Mugu. Members of Baywatch Avalon, Baywatch Isthmus, Baywatch Cabrillo, Los Angeles County Fire Section 2, Los Angeles County Fire Section 5, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Avalon, and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Air 5 are also assisting in the search efforts.
The individual missing was reported to be a 22-year-old male, last seen wearing a black sweatshirt and black pants.
If you have any information regarding the missing boater, please contact Coast Guard watchstanders at (310) 521-3805.