PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The Coast Guard, with the assistance of good Samaritans, successfully rescued a 54-year-old diver on Tuesday, 24 miles east of Bald Head Island, North Carolina. The diver, identified as Steve Oatman, was reported missing earlier in the day after failing to resurface at the expected time.
The incident began when Coast Guard Sector North Carolina received a report at 12:26 p.m. from Oatman’s wife, who stated that her husband was overdue from a solo dive. Oatman was equipped with a wetsuit, dive gear, and a personal locator beacon (PLB). Concerned about his safety, she contacted authorities after 30 minutes had passed since his scheduled resurfacing time.
In response, aircrews from Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City were immediately deployed, alongside a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium crew from Coast Guard Station Wrightsville Beach and an emergency medical technician from Wrightsville Beach Ocean Rescue. The search operation intensified as the MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew arrived on scene at approximately 2 p.m. and quickly located Oatman, who was seen waving his arms.
The Coast Guard boatcrew, along with nearby divers, recovered Oatman from the water about 3 miles northwest of his reported dive location. He was found in good condition with no reported injuries. The Coast Guard credited Oatman’s use of a highlighter green safety sausage for aiding the helicopter crew in spotting him.
“This diver’s preparedness and experience played a major factor in his rescue,” said Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Sparks. “Having the right safety gear, filing a float plan, and staying calm under pressure can help any diver or mariner in danger.”
Oatman had taken appropriate precautions, including filing a float plan and carrying safety equipment, which were instrumental in his rescue. The Coast Guard continues to emphasize the importance of preparation and safety for those venturing out on the water.
