Search For Missing Fishermen Suspended

NANTUCKET, MA — The Coast Guard has suspended its search for two missing fishermen who were on a fishing vessel that sunk about 10 miles off Nantucket. The Coast Guard announced it had suspended the search late Tuesday night, barring further developments.

The New Bedford-based Misty Blue sank about 10 miles southeast of Nantucket. A good Samaritan pulled up two fishermen but were unable to find the other two.

The missing fishermen were identified as Michael Roberts, 44, and Jonathan Saravia, 32.

The Massachusetts State Police Dive Team deployed side scan sonar Tuesday, locating what is believed to be the boat wreckage. Weather and ocean conditions kept troopers from diving to identify it. Police had planned on resuming the dive Thursday.

The Coast Guard said it received a distress call from an emergency radio beacon aboard the 69-foot Misty Blue at about 6:10 p.m. Another fishing boat in the area, the Enterprise, was nearby and rescued two of the fishermen. A massive search of the area continued Tuesday morning involving a Coast Guard helicopter, plane, boats, the Barnstable County Sheriff, Dennis Fire Department and fishing vessel Mariette.

The cause of the sinking was under investigation.

Coast Guard photo of life ring