Coast Guard: Two bodies found, believed to be connected to capsized fishing boat in Alaska
The Coast Guard has announced the suspension of its search for five crew members of the fishing vessel Wind Walker, which capsized near Couverden Point, Alaska, under severe weather conditions. Two bodies have been found, believed to be linked to the missing crew, who were aboard the 50-foot boat. The vessel issued a Mayday call on December 1, reporting that it was overturning, but subsequent attempts to communicate were met with silence. The search operation was complicated by harsh conditions, including winds reaching 60 mph and six-foot waves. Chief Warrant Officer James Koon expressed deep sorrow for the families involved and praised the swift actions of the search teams.
He highlighted the extensive effort made by the Coast Guard, covering over 108 square nautical miles in their search. The Wind Walker's crew members included Michael Brown, Travis Kapp, Jacob Hannah, Alex Ireland, and Emilio Celaya-Talamanter. The Coast Guard is asking anyone with relevant information to contact them as the search for answers continues.