The U.S. Coast Guard is actively searching for five people reported missing after the fishing vessel Wind Walker capsized early Sunday morning near Couverden Point in southeast Alaska.
According to a Coast Guard press release, the incident occurred around 12:10 a.m. local time. The Wind Walker crew made a mayday call reporting the vessel was overturning, but attempts to gather further details were unsuccessful as communication with the crew was lost shortly after. A registered emergency position-indicating radio beacon confirmed the vessel’s last location just south of Point Couverden in Icy Strait.
Initial reports suggest there were five individuals aboard the 50-foot vessel at the time, but this number remains unconfirmed as the search continues.
In response, the Coast Guard launched an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter and a response boat to the area. The ferry vessel AMHS Hubbard, which intercepted the Coast Guard’s urgent broadcast, joined the search and was the first to arrive at the scene to assist.
Search teams have so far recovered seven cold-water immersion suits and two strobe lights near the site of the capsizing. However, harsh weather conditions—including heavy snowfall, winds reaching 45-60 mph, and six-foot seas— may pose significant challenges to the operation.
The identities of the missing individuals have not been disclosed. The Coast Guard has urged anyone with relevant information to contact them at 907-463-2980.