NEW YORK-The Coast Guard concluded the multi-agency search for an overdue boater in Oyster Bay Harbor, N.Y., after a body matching the description of the missing mariner was found near Moses Point at 11:45 a.m. today.
A Coast Guard rescue helicopter crew from Air Station Atlantic City located the man’s eight-foot aluminum dinghy on the north end of the harbor at about 9:25 a.m.
Rescue boat crews from Coast Guard Station Eaton’s Neck, Nassau County Police Department and Oyster Bay conducted water searches, and rescue helicopter crews from Coast Guard Air Station’s Cape Cod and Atlantic City and Nassau County PD completed air searches throughout the night and this morning. The Oyster Bay Harbormaster, Constable, local police department and dive units from Nassau County PD and Oyster Bay also assisted in the search which spanned Oyster Bay Harbor and portions of Cold Spring Harbor.
“It’s always very difficult when a search ends in tragedy,” said Lt. Doug Miller, Coast Guard Sector Long Island Sound command duty officer. “We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends.”
The Nassau County Police Department received notification of the missing boater from his wife after he departed Roosevelt Park at about 4:30 p.m. Tuesday to check on his vessel, which was attached to a mooring ball about 100 yards from shore.
“Surviving in cold water becomes increasingly difficult without proper personal protective equipment,” said Miller. “Wearing a lifejacket and the proper clothing is essential when you get underway at all times, especially in cold weather.”
During the initial search the boater’s vehicle was found parked at the Roosevelt Park Marina unattended and his dinghy missing.
Weather on scene throughout the search was reported at 12 to 17 mph winds and calm seas.
