LOST AT SEA
MENDOCINO » A drowning occurred Jan. 2 at Mendocino Big River Headlands Park near Portuguese Beach, according to a press release from the Mendocino Volunteer Fire Department. Mendocino Fire dispatched both its Water Rescue and Cliff Rescue teams, but despite heroic efforts, could not save the victim, whose name has not been released.
“The ocean conditions were extreme,” stated Fire Chief David Latoof. “Our folks showed tremendous skill navigating through the surf to make it to scene in the expeditious manner that they did.”
The accident was first reported as an unknown person in the water off of Mendocino Big River Headlands State Park. Mendocino Fire units arrived at the scene shortly after State Parks’ lifeguards. As more responders arrived at the scene, a hasty search was conducted along the coastline to try and find a person in the water.
With four rescue personnel on two jet skis, a State Parks Lifeguard in the water, and more than 20 personnel on land all looking for any sign, the victim was finally spotted floating in the bay of Portuguese Beach, having been missing for at least 45 minutes.
Soon- to- be- sworn- in Judge Patrick Pekin worked with Captain Nicholas Winegar to bring the victim ashore to the hands of responders who immediately began CPR.
Medics continued resuscitation efforts for more than 20 minutes, but the victim was pronounced dead by a responding Paramedic from Adventist Health Mendocino Coast. The body was then carried up to the trail where Mendocino County Sheriff Department officers assumed custody.
“It all comes back to training. We train extensively for situations just like this,” said newlyelected Assistant Chief Patrick Clark. “When new members join the Water Rescue Team, we have them build skills, practice quick maneuvering in the protected river and then gradually move to the more dynamic conditions of the ocean.”
Firefighter Paulo Felipe Andrade, who leads Mendocino Fire’s Water Rescue training and is also a State Parks Lifeguard said, “The whole operation is truly a collaborative effort. Obviously, we would have preferred a different outcome today but we know that we gave every effort trying to rescue this victim.”
Although it is always important to be aware of ocean conditions, a heightened sense of awareness should be taken during these winter months.
Mendocino Fire would like to remind everyone that ocean safety should not be taken lightly.
“Conversations among firefighters pointed out that they continue to be amazed by how powerful the ocean is. It never ceases to surprise with its tremendous force,” stated the press release. “Whether one is a local with extensive ocean experience, or a tourist here for the first time, always be aware of what the ocean is doing. Sneaker waves are real and our rocky shore can be unforgiving. It is easy to be swept off
the rocks in a moment of inattention or even when exploring the tidepools and being overcome with high energy swell.”
If you think that someone may be in trouble in or near the ocean, call 911. Try to identify notable landmarks to give to the dispatcher and rescue personnel can always be canceled if the situation resolves itself.
Mendocino Fire extended heartfelt condolences to the victim’s family calling the incident “a somber precaution that may serve to prevent another loss.”
“The real tragedy was the victim’s family watching as a loved one was lost to the ocean. We watched a horrified family get broken apart. We, luckily, got to go home and hug our families. I’m not sure if there are words that can give peace to the family, our local responders, or to stop this from happening again,” stated the release.