After a boat sank near Sitka Sunday morning, a Sitka woman died. Deanna Moore (51), was a well-known counselor, advocate, and member of Sitkans Against Family Violence, and Sitka Counseling.
Two of the men aboard were hurt but survived.
Sitka police reported that Moore, her husband Jay Stilwell, 42-year-old Roger Hames, Jr., was traveling in Stilwell’s C-Dory outside of Three Entrance Bay, when the boat was struck by a wave. The vessel was swept away by a second wave, which caused it to capsize.
Stilwell and Hames managed to escape into the water, but Moore was still trapped in the boat. A Sitka Air Station helicopter responded to the call and brought Moore out of the boat using a rescue swimmer.
She was later flown to Sitka, and declared dead at Mt. Edgecumbe Medical Center. Two men were taken to Mt. Edgecumbe where they were both treated for their injuries.
Moore’s advocacy work has brought her many times to the airwaves. Moore’s advocacy work has brought her to the airwaves many times.
U.S. Coast Guard Petty officer Lexie Preston reported Monday afternoon at 17th District headquarters, Juneau that the C-Dory is still semi-submerged in its original area of capsize. There has been no fuel spillage and there is still no salvage plan.
Sunday morning was cold and clear in Sitka, with light winds. There was still some residual swell from the recent gales. One witness described the scene as having “confused waters” near Three Entrance Bay due to the swell and large tides.
