Coast Guard suspends search for missing Bainbridge Island fisherman

SEATTLE — Coast Guard crews on Tuesday afternoon suspended its search for a missing 54-year-old man who was believed to have been fishing in Rich Passage near Bainbridge Island.

The search was suspended at 1:43 p.m., the Coast Guard said.

"The decision to suspend a search is never an easy one to make and is done with great care and deliberation," said Lt. Cmdr. Darkeim Brown, search and rescue mission controller at Sector Puget Sound. "Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the missing man."

Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound received the initial report of a possible missing man from the Bainbridge Island Police Department at about 6:30 p.m.  Monday when his 15-foot 'runabout' boat was found adrift.

The Coast Guard said when it arrived on scene, crew members discovered multiple indications the boat belonging to Bill Anderson, of Bainbridge Island, was being used, including a fishing pole and an open tackle box.

The missing man's wife  confirmed to the Coast Guard that his truck and trailer were still at the Port Orchard Marina boat ramp Monday night. He was reportedly wearing blue jeans and a sweat shirt but not a life jacket.

If there is anyone with any possible information regarding the man's location, you are urged to contact the Coast Guard at (206)217-6001.