Coast Guard Suspends Search for Pilot Following Aircraft Crash Near Newport
The U.S. Coast Guard has suspended its search for a 78-year-old pilot after a Beechcraft B95 crashed into the Pacific Ocean near the Yaquina Head Lighthouse in Newport. Crews searched approximately 124 square miles over 12 hours but did not locate the pilot.
NEWPORT, Ore. - The U.S. Coast Guard has suspended its search for a pilot whose aircraft crashed into the Pacific Ocean near the Yaquina Head Lighthouse on Monday.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Columbia River received a report at 12:54 p.m. that a Beechcraft B95 had crashed offshore.
The Coast Guard immediately launched a coordinated search involving two 47-foot motor lifeboats from Coast Guard Station Yaquina Bay and an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Facility Newport.
Newport Police, Newport Fire, and Good Samaritan vessels also assisted with the response.
Crews searched approximately 124 square miles over 12 hours but did not locate the pilot, identified by the Coast Guard only as a 78-year-old man. Responders reported that the aircraft entered the water at a high rate of speed and sank.
“Suspending an active search is an incredibly difficult decision, and it is one we never make lightly,” said Lt. Nick Torres, search and rescue mission commander for Sector Columbia River. “Our hearts go out to the pilot’s family and loved ones during this devastating time.”
The Coast Guard did not release additional information about the pilot or what may have caused the crash.
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