PORT TOWNSEND — The body of a man was recovered from the water at the Port Townsend Boat Haven on Monday morning.
The identity of the victim has not been released by authorities pending notification of family. An autopsy will be performed Wednesday.
The man was found in the water near a boat that is for sale after emergency crews were called to a report of a person in the water.
Port Townsend Police Sgt. Troy Surber said that a man had an appointment with the deceased man to take a look at the boat, a 29-foot diesel trawler moored at C Dock.
He arrived early to find no one on board then returned 10 minutes later to find a body floating near the vessel.
East Jefferson Fire-Rescue and Port Townsend police were dispatched to the scene.
Surber said it was important to file a float plan.
“It is extremely important to let someone know of your plans when you are going to be in or around the water,” he said.
Port of Port Townsend Public Information Officer Kimberly Matej said it was important to remember to wear a life jacket or vest, not just on boats, but even on docks.
“Boating season is upon us and we want to remind everyone of the importance of wearing a life jacket. Eighty percent of the deaths in and around boating facilities are due to drowning. And 90 percent of those were not wearing a life jacket.”
Matej said Monday’s water temperature was 45 degrees.
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Jefferson County Editor/Reporter Jeannie McMacken can be reached at 360-385-2335 or at jmcmacken@peninsuladailynews.com.
