AI-generated illustration; not a photograph of the reported event.
- calendar_today October 29, 2026
Angoon Fisherman Roger Williams, Jr. Found Dead
Roger Williams, Jr., who was reported missing after leaving to go fishing near Angoon, Alaska, was found dead on Wednesday, according to Alaska State Troopers. His body was located on the shore near Danger Reef Point shortly before 1 p.m. by Angoon Search and Rescue.
Initial Disappearance and Search Efforts
The search for Williams began after he was last seen at approximately 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday. He departed from the Angoon boat harbor to the ferry terminal in a red and silver 16-foot Lund fishing boat to go cockle fishing. At the time, Williams was reported to be wearing a brown Carhartt jacket, black pants, and boots.
Discovery of the Unoccupied Fishing Boat
Later that evening, around 8 p.m., the U.S. Coast Guard found an unoccupied 16-foot Lund skiff near the shoreline between Killisnoo Island and Angoon. This discovery prompted a community-wide search and rescue effort in Southeast Alaska. The Coast Guard searched by helicopter while local teams from Angoon and Wrangell search and rescue joined the search operation.
Recovery Near Danger Reef Point and Aftermath
Searchers from Angoon located Williams’s body on the shore near Danger Reef Point. Following the recovery, his remains are being transported to the State Medical Examiner's office. Authorities confirmed that Williams’s next of kin have been notified.
Community Response and Ongoing Investigation
The joint efforts by Angoon and Wrangell search and rescue teams, together with the U.S. Coast Guard, underscore the community's response to the missing fisherman. The incident has brought attention to the risks faced by those engaged in fishing activities around Southeast Alaska. The State Medical Examiner’s office will continue the investigation into Williams’s death.
Summary
The death of Roger Williams, Jr. marks a tragic end to the search and rescue operation in Angoon. Authorities and community members extend their condolences to his family as the investigation continues.
Source: ktoo.org.
