Maritime Injury Law BlogSitka Fisherman Killed in Tragic Accident
A 75-year-old Sitka fisherman died Monday, August 19, 2024, following a fatal accident in the engine room of his fishing vessel.
Alaska State Troopers identified the victim as Barry McKee, who was fishing aboard his troller LISA JEAN near Salisbury Sound, approximately 20 miles northwest of Sitka. According to reports, McKee became entangled in the mechanical gear below deck and was fatally injured.
Emergency responders from the Sitka Fire Department were dispatched to the scene and recovered McKee’s body. A good Samaritan vessel assisted by towing the LISA JEAN to protected waters, allowing troopers to conduct an investigation into the accident.
A nearby sport charter boat transported the boat’s crew member back to Sitka.
Since the LISA JEAN is a commercial fishing vessel, the U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Detachment has taken over the investigation into the circumstances of the fatal incident.