Coast Guard searches for missing crabeater in southern Maryland

CHARLES COUNTY, Maryland. – The Coast Guard is looking for a missing crabeater near Cobb Island in Charles County, Maryland.

Authorities say they received a report on Wednesday evening from a fisherman who had not returned.

According to Charles County Volunteer Fire and EMS, the man they’re looking for is one of their own firefighters, Doug Hands, 49.

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They say Hands spoke to his wife from his crab boat on several occasions, but when he spoke to her around 4:10 p.m. he told her the water was “rough” and he would be heading home in 20 minutes.

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When he didn’t return, Hands’ wife called the missing boat.

The crews searched all evening and continued to search today. Hands’ boat was found on the shore in Westmoreland County, Va., But it is still missing.

Hands would be a good swimmer who knows the water well.

“He loves the water. He’s been doing this stuff for probably about 30 years. I’ve volunteered in the county for 32 years and we just hope somewhere in this river he’s safe,” Charles County Volunteer said. Fire and EMS spokesperson Bill Smith.

Hands also received a Police Rescue Award after arresting a woman who had climbed and may be considering jumping off the Nice / Middleton Bridge in 2019.

The neighbors are looking for their private boat.

If you have any information that could help with the search, call Coast Guard officials at 410-576-2525.