Tag: oregon coast

LINCOLN CITY, Ore. – A person died Sunday afternoon after being swept out to sea near the mouth of Siletz Bay, according to North Lincoln Fire & Rescue.

Emergency crews were dispatched around 3:40 p.m. after 911 callers reported someone caught in a strong current and unable to return to shore. Rescue teams from NLFR arrived within minutes and launched two jet skis to search for the victim.

The U.S. Coast Guard assisted in the search with two lifeboats and a helicopter. Lincoln City police deployed a drone to aid in the effort, while the Depoe Bay Fire District provided additional support on scene.

Despite the rapid and coordinated response, the individual was found and pronounced dead. The Oregon State Police is leading the investigation.

In a statement, NLFR extended condolences to the victim’s family and reminded the public to use extreme caution near the ocean.

“Sneaker waves can strike without warning,” the agency said. “Never turn your back on the ocean. If the sand is wet, the water has already reached that point.”