Four crewmen from the Alaska fishing vessel LAURA were forced to abandon ship Monday. The vessel ran aground forcing the crewmembers into survival rafts. A United States Coast Guard Jayhawk helicopter located the crewmen and hoisted them to safety. Winds of 24 mph were reported at the scene. The vessel is reported to be carrying 4000 gallons of fuel. Investigation into the accident is to be conducted by the Coast Guard. It is unknown why the vessel went aground.
The Coast Guard noted that the Laura’s survival suits, flares, radios, and strobes all played a part in a good outcome. No known injuries to the crew are known at this time, and it sounds like the crew is now safe and sound.