Coast Guard rescue swimmer dies from accidents in Washington rescue mission

ASTORIA, Ore. (KATU) — A United States Coast Guard (USCG) Rescue Swimmer has died after struggling accidents throughout a rescue mission off the Washington coast late final month.

Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyler Jaggers, who was an aviation survival tech assigned to Air Station Astoria, died on Thursday night, the coast guard confirmed.

He was critically injured whereas rescuing a mariner of a industrial ship that was in misery of the Oregon coast again on February 27. Jaggers was rushed to Victoria General Hospital in British Columbia for therapy, and was later transferred to Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Tacoma.

USCG officers stated they’ve opened an investigation into what brought about Jagger’s accidents in the course of the rescue.

“During a ceremony attended by his family and fellow crew members from Air Station Astoria, the Coast Guard recognized Jaggers’ remarkable courage by meritorious advancement to Petty Officer Second Class and award of the Distinguished Flying Cross, one of the highest military awards for heroism during aerial flight,” the U.S. Coast Guard stated. “He succumbed to his injuries and passed away shortly after.”

Sen. Suzanne Weber, R-Tillamook, tearfully introduced Jaggers’ passing throughout courtesies on the Senate ground Friday morning on the state Capitol.

“Sadly, this morning we learned he had succumbed to his injuries. He gave all so that others could live,” Weber stated. “Colleagues, this is personal for many in my district and in my office. If not for the bravery of the Coast Guard and swimmers like Tyler, many more lives would be lost at sea. To Tyler’s family, please know that Oregon stands beside you. You are not alone. Keep his family in your thoughts and prayers.”

READ MORE | Tributes pour in for injured Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer

Cannon Beach Fire paid tribute to Jaggers earlier this week.

Jaggers joined the Coast Guard in January of 2022, and served at Air Station Astoria since April of 2024. He beforehand was acknowledged for superior efficiency by the Secretary of Homeland Security when he was assigned to operations within the Caribbean Sea.

“Aviation Survival Technician Jaggers represented the very best of our Service and the Aviation Rescue Swimmer community,” stated Admiral Kevin Lunday, Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard. “He demonstrated extraordinary heroism in the face of danger, upholding the highest standards of courage and excellence for Coast Guard operations. We honor his selfless actions and unwavering devotion to our highest calling: to save others. His family has our deepest condolences and steadfast support, and we continue to honor their privacy during this very difficult time.”