Bodega Bay kayaker dies after rescue efforts by Coast Guard, Sheriff's Office

A kayaker who appeared to have been crabbing in Bodega Bay died Friday morning after he was reached by rescuers, according to authorities.

At 10:04 a.m. the Coast Guard received a call from a mariner who saw an upside-down kayak in the waters near the head of the Bodega Bay channel, said Lt. John Thompson.

The Coast Guard was training in the vicinity and sent out a 47-foot lifeboat to assist, rescuing an unresponsive adult male kayaker, who they believe was alone, Thompson said.

At 10:12 a.m., the Sheriff’s Office and department’s helicopter, Henry 1 responded to the request near Doran Beach, and said the kayaker, who was wearing a personal flotation device, was found near a kayak equipped with crabbing gear. They said another kayaker had found him face down in the water and was attempting to rescue him.

“At this time, it is unclear if the individual experienced a medical emergency or how he came to be in the water,” the Sheriff’s Office said in the release. The office’s Marine Unit is conducting a vessel accident investigation.

The Coroner’s Office will conduct an autopsy, and the Sheriff’s Office will release his identity once next of kin have been notified.

“The Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the deceased during this profoundly difficult time,” they said.