Coast Guard Recovers Three from Vessel Fire

The U.S. Coast Guard responded to and recovered three members from a fishing vessel that was on fire. An HH-60 Jayhawk helicopter from Coast Guard Air Station Astoria, Ore. and an 47-ft. Motor Lifeboat from Station Cape Disappointment (Wash.) responded to a distress call from the fishing vessel Rear Fisher. The distress call, stating the 58-ft. fishing vessel was on fire and the crew abandon ship for a life raft, was confirmed by the fishing vessel Backlash. The three members of the Ilwaco-based fishing vessel were recovered by the Coast Guard and the F/V Backlash; and transported to Station Cape Disappointment. One crewmember was taken to Emmanuel Hospital, in Portland, suffering from burns on his face, arms, and back. The other two members were in good condition.