Alaska Teen Survives Three Days on Capsized Boat in Bering Sea
A 15-year-old boy was found alive after clinging to an overturned fishing boat for days in Alaska's Bering Sea, while his brother and cousin died.
By Ravi Menon · First published 12 Sept 2026
In brief
- A 15-year-old boy went missing with his brother and cousin after their fishing boat capsized off St. Lawrence Island.
- The boy survived nearly three days at sea, clinging to the overturned 18-foot skiff in frigid waters.
- Rescue teams launched an extensive search and eventually spotted the teen atop the hull several miles offshore.
- The US Coast Guard and a fishing vessel coordinated his dramatic rescue; he was found hypothermic but alive.
- The boy is now recovering, while authorities continue to investigate how the deadly accident occurred.
Timeline · 4 moments
Fishing boat carrying three teens capsizes off Alaska
Sydney Morning Herald ↗Search launched for missing teens near St. Lawrence Island
World News Headlines, Latest International News, World Breaking News - Times of India News ↗Rescuers confirm deaths of boy's brother and cousin
NBC News ↗Coast Guard and fishing vessel coordinate dramatic rescue
ABC News ↗How it started
The incident began when a 15-year-old boy set out on a fishing trip near St. Lawrence Island, Alaska, accompanied by his older brother and cousin. Their small 18-foot boat did not return as expected, leading to concern among their families and community.
When the group failed to arrive home, authorities were alerted and the US Coast Guard launched a search operation. The region is known for its harsh and unpredictable weather, making any search and rescue effort particularly urgent.
How it unfolded
On September 7, the fishing boat carrying the three teenagers capsized in the Bering Sea. The waters in this area are extremely cold, posing a serious threat to survival. According to reports, the boy's brother and cousin did not survive the accident, leaving him alone on the overturned boat.
For nearly three days, the 15-year-old managed to stay alive by clinging to the hull of the capsized vessel. The search effort intensified as time passed, with Coast Guard aircraft and rescue boats combing the area.
On September 10, rescuers finally spotted the boy about four miles east of St. Lawrence Island. He was found sitting atop the overturned skiff, visibly hypothermic but conscious. A nearby fishing vessel assisted in the rescue, and the Coast Guard transported him to safety.
The rescue was described as highly emotional by those involved, given the loss of the other two boys and the survivor's ordeal in such harsh conditions.
Where it stands
The teenager is now recovering from hypothermia and exhaustion. He is receiving medical care and support from his family and local community. Authorities have not yet released full details about how the boat capsized or why only one of the three boys survived.
Investigations are ongoing to understand the circumstances of the accident and to determine if any safety protocols were missed or could be improved for future trips in the region.
What to watch
Officials are expected to release more information about the cause of the capsize and any lessons for boating safety in Alaska's challenging waters. The community is also likely to focus on supporting the survivor and the families of those who died.


