The Coast Guard suspended its search for a missing lobsterman out of Jonesport, Maine as of 9 a.m. Sunday.
Officials responded to a call that came in on Friday reporting that lobster boat, F/V Top Gun had one fisherman on board when it left port, 18-year-old Tylar Michaud. However, a fisherman from the area found the boat at a position near Petit Manan Bar, about 12 nautical miles east of Bar Harbor with no one on board.
A spokesperson for the Coast Guard says sustained fog hampered their search efforts. They continued the search for roughly 40 hours and have now suspended the operation pending further developments.
"The decision to suspend a search and rescue case is one of the most difficult decisions I must make," said Megan Drewniak, deputy sector commander of Coast Guard Sector Northern New England. "Our thoughts remain with Tylar’s family, friends, and loved ones."
According to authorities, the Maine Marine Patrol plans to continue the search effort in the coming days.
About 25 lobstermen responded to the search effort after the initial report Friday night, Marine Patrol Sgt. Sean Dow told News Center Maine WCSH. Air crews with the Maine Army and Air Force National Guard joined the search along with volunteer private pilots, he said.
The principal of Charles M. Sumner High School, Jackson Green, released a statement regarding Michaud who graduated from the school in June. Green talked about the extensive search and expressed the community hope that Michaud is found alive.
"During his time at Sumner, Tylar touched the lives of many within our close-knit community. He was not only an exceptional student but also a compassionate, kind-hearted individual who always went above and beyond to lend a helping hand to others. His smile and unwavering positivity brightened the lives of everyone he encountered, leaving a lasting impression on the hearts of teachers, staff, and fellow students alike.”
The school said mental health experts were available on campus Monday for anyone in the community who is struggling with the news of Michaud's disappearance.
If you would like to donate to this cause find the link here. Any remaining funds will be used to create a scholarship in his name.
The editors’ note: This story will be continuously updated as we receive more information.
