Search for a missing man in Lake Washington called off after extensive water and air sweeps
Aug 1, 2026, 12:06 PM
The I-90 floating bridge across Lake Washington. (Photo: Getty Images)
(Photo: Getty Images)
The Coast Guard and the Mercer Island Police Marine Patrol called off a search for a man who apparently fell off a boat on Lake Washington.
The 19-year-old man was on a boat during the Seafair hydroplane races and air show Friday.
At around 10:40 p.m. Friday, the vessel was traveling at a high rate of speed when he told others on board he needed to use the restroom.
When they arrived at the eastern high-rise of the I-90 bridge, he was no longer on the boat.
The others searched for about five minutes, then called 911.
The U.S. Coast Guard, Mercer Island Police and Seattle Harbor Patrol searched for a couple of hours, using infrared spotlights and thermal-imaging drones.
Due to darkness and operational considerations, the search crews called off rescue efforts at around 12:30 a.m.
Authorities resumed the search Saturday morning, but still were unable to locate the man.
The Coast Guard announced it has now suspended the active search until officials receive more information about the man’s disappearance.
They are trying to determine if he swam to shore or if someone on another boat pulled him from the water.
Search crews were assisted by the Clyde Hill Police Department’s drone unit, the Bellevue Fire Department, Eastside Fire & Rescue and land-based patrols.
