Search called off for man last seen on boat in Shilshole Bay

SEATTLE — The Coast Guard has suspended a search for a man last seen on a 14-foot skiff in Seattle's Shilshole Bay.

The Coast Guard said Saturday that multiple agencies searched for over 20 hours but could not find Jerry Middleton. The agency suspended the search Saturday afternoon.

Shilshole Bay Marina reviewed camera footage and Bainbridge Island police also searched the shoreline but could not find him.

A person reported seeing Middleton aboard the vessel about 30 minutes before another person reported seeing the vessel unmanned and adrift in the bay Friday.

Coast Guard officials were able to determine through boat documents that the skiff was purchased last week and delivered to the marina Friday afternoon.

The owner reportedly told delivery people that he intended to sail from the marina to North Bainbridge Island.