The Tragedy at Falcon Cove: The Disappearance of William Stiles and the Perils of Sneaker Waves

A Family Outing Turns Tragic

On January 11, 2020, the Stiles family from Portland, Oregon, embarked on a trip to the scenic Oregon coast to celebrate a birthday. Jeremy Stiles, along with his children, seven-year-old Lola and four-year-old William, ventured onto an off-beach trail near Falcon Cove, south of Arch Cape. During their walk, a sudden and powerful sneaker wave surged onto the trail, sweeping all three into the frigid Pacific Ocean.

Immediate Rescue Efforts

Emergency responders were dispatched around 12:40 p.m. following reports of individuals being pulled into the ocean. A Manzanita police officer managed to retrieve Lola from the water; she was transported to a hospital but was pronounced dead. Jeremy was rescued and treated for hypothermia at Seaside Hospital. Despite extensive search efforts by the U.S. Coast Guard, including aerial searches, William remained missing.

Community Mourning and Vigils

The loss deeply affected both the Portland and coastal communities. Vestal Elementary School, where Lola was a student, organized a vigil to honor the siblings. Community members gathered to share their grief and support the Stiles family during this devastating time.

Understanding Sneaker Waves

Sneaker waves are large, unexpected waves that can surge far beyond the normal surf zone, posing significant risks to those near the shoreline. These waves are particularly common along the Pacific Northwest coast and have been responsible for numerous accidents and fatalities. The incident involving the Stiles family underscores the unpredictable nature of these waves and the importance of coastal safety awareness. ...Read More

Share

Comments (0)

Leave A Comment