In another swift response by the U.S. Coast Guard medevaced a crew member in distress from a commercial fishing vessel operating far offshore. The incident occurred early Tuesday morning, roughly 78 miles northeast of Kahului, Maui, with a 35-year-old man suffering abdominal pain aboard the Pacific Dragon II.
According to a press release from the Coast Guard, the Sector Honolulu command center first received the medevac request at 4:57 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 21. “Watchstanders consulted with the duty flight surgeon, who recommended a medevac,” the release stated.
An MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew was deployed from Coast Guard Air Station Barbers Point, tasked with finding the vessel and bringing the ailing fisherman to safety. As reported by Island News, “the helicopter crew arrived on scene at 4:03 a.m. and transported the 35-year-old man to Maui Memorial Medical Center in Wailuku. He was reported to be in stable condition.”
The Coast Guard’s timely actions reflect the critical role they play in safeguarding offshore fishing operations. Fishermen often face immense risks at sea, far from help. Thankfully, this particular call ended with the fisherman stabilized and receiving the medical attention he needed.
