Coast Guard Rescue Four, and Their Dog, Friday Morning

Willapa Bay, WA - The Coast Guard rescued four people and their dog near Leadbetter Point at the entrance to Willapa Bay, Wash., after their vessel ran aground, Friday.

At approximately 2:39 a.m., the Coast Guard received a mayday call from the 61-foot fishing vessel Genesis A after it ran aground on a sand bar.

The Coast Guard launched a MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter from Air Station Astoria, Ore., and a 47-foot motor lifeboat from Station Grays Harbor, Wash. Coast Guard responders from Station Cape Disappointment, Wash., also responded to the beach area near the grounding.

At approximately 3:37 a.m., the helicopter crew hoisted the four members and their dog on board and brought them to Sector Columbia River. No medical attention was needed.

Coast Guard pollution investigators and Washington Department of Ecology are en route to assess the scene for potential pollution. While no pollution was reported, the Genesis A has the capacity to carry approximately 1,400 gallons of fuel.

The cause of the grounding is still under investigation.