Search continues for officer missing after rogue wave capsizes boat

EVERETT, Wash. — A search continues for a 29-year-old Tulalip Police Department officer thrown into the water after a rogue wave capsized his boat just before 9 p.m. Tuesday.

Two officers were aboard a Tulalip Police Department Fisheries boat trying to help a vessel near Jetty Island when a rouge wave struck their boat, capsizing it and sending both men into the water.

The second Tulalip Police Department officer, a 38-year-old man wearing a life jacket, was rescued around 11:45 p.m. by a private boat near Hat Island.

He was able to talk to rescuers despite experiencing symptoms of hypothermia. He was taken to Providence Regional Medical Center for treatment.

Tulalip police confirmed Tuesday morning that 29-year-old Charlie Cortez is the officer who is still missing. The department said he’s been an officer for three years.

“We’re hoping for a miracle” the chief said.

Navy Everett remained at the scene checking the water and a Coast Guard helicopter assisted in the search.

However, rescuers asked private boats trying to help in the search on Wednesday night to stay away due to high winds and unsafe conditions.

Cox Media Group