A U.S. Coast Guard 45-foot Response Boat-Medium races across Bellingham Bay during a previous operation. Coast Guard crews joined the Bellingham Fire Department on July 4 in a rescue attempt after a boat carrying a single occupant capsized. The 49-year-old man was later pronounced dead. (Photo courtesy of U.S. Coast Guard)
BELLINGHAM, Wash. — A 49-year-old man died Saturday evening after his boat capsized in Bellingham Bay, prompting a joint rescue response from the U.S. Coast Guard and the Bellingham Fire Department.
The emergency unfolded at approximately 6 p.m. on July 4, when watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound received a report that a vessel had capsized in Bellingham Bay with a single person aboard.
“Our deepest condolences go out to the family, friends and loved ones of the man who was lost in this tragic incident. This is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers mariners face.”
Lt. William Trumper, Commanding Officer, Coast Guard Station Bellingham
“Our deepest condolences go out to the family, friends and loved ones of the man who was lost in this tragic incident,” Lt. William Trumper said, commanding officer of Coast Guard Station Bellingham. “This is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers mariners face.”
The Coast Guard immediately issued an urgent marine information broadcast to alert nearby boaters and diverted a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium crew from Coast Guard Station Bellingham to the scene.
When the Coast Guard crew arrived, they found the vessel capsized in the water. Responders temporarily righted the boat before a marine crew from the Bellingham Fire Department arrived to assist with the rescue.
Two Coast Guard crew members transferred to the Bellingham Fire Department vessel, where they worked alongside firefighters to recover the unresponsive man from the overturned boat.
Responders immediately began CPR and provided advanced emergency medical care while transporting the man to Coast Guard Station Bellingham. Despite those efforts, emergency medical personnel later pronounced him dead.
Joint Response
The rescue highlighted the close coordination between federal and local responders during marine emergencies in Whatcom County.
The Coast Guard led the initial response after receiving the distress call, while Bellingham Fire Department crews joined the operation on the water to assist with recovering the victim and providing lifesaving care.
“Our thoughts remain with all those who are affected by this incident during this incredibly difficult time,” Lt. Trumper said.
Calm Conditions at the Time
According to the Coast Guard, weather conditions at the time of the incident were relatively calm, with south winds around 11 mph, 1-foot waves, an air temperature of 62 degrees and a water temperature of 51 degrees.
Officials have not released what caused the boat to capsize, and the incident remains under investigation.
Cold water can quickly become life-threatening, even during the summer months. Water temperatures in the low 50s can trigger cold shock within minutes, making it difficult for boaters to stay afloat or re-enter a vessel without a properly fitted life jacket.
The Coast Guard has not publicly identified the victim pending notification procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
About the Author
1 thought on “Man Dies July 4th After Boat Capsizes in Bellingham Bay”