Coast Guard airlifts man from vessel run aground

PORTSMOUTH, Va. – A Coast Guard rescue helicopter crew rescued a 70-year-old man near Smith Island after his 39-foot sailing vessel, Hornblower, ran aground Tuesday night.

Rescued was William Bayliss.

Bayliss contacted watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Hampton Roads at approximately 11 p.m., requesting assistance. A rescue boat crew from Coast Guard Station Cape Charles was launched at 11:19 p.m., but was unable to help due to breaking surf and shoal conditions in the shallow waters.

At 11:45 p.m. a Coast Guard HH-60 Jayhawk rescue helicopter crew launched from Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City, N.C. Upon arrival, a rescue swimmer was lowered to help safety hoist Bayliss aboard the helicopter.

Bayliss did not require medical attention and was taken to Norfolk International Airport.