Sandra Hvatum Missing Person Case

Jan 09, 2019

Jul 03, 2024

Sandra

Hvatum

72

36

68 inches

200 lbs

White / Caucasian

Female

On August 15, 1989, 36-year-old Sandra "Sandy" Hvatum, along with Kristen Hvatum and Russell Farrell, disappeared into the waters of Prince William Sound, Alaska. The three were aboard the F/V Sequel, a 67-foot steel trawler, when it capsized and sank approximately two to three miles north of Story Island. The circumstances leading to the vessel's sudden sinking were reportedly due to a transfer of ballast water, which caused the ship to become unstable. The Alaska State Troopers were notified of the incident, and an official report was filed on August 25, 1989. Despite any search and rescue efforts that may have been launched, no survivors were found. The official investigation into the sinking of the F/V Sequel concluded that the vessel capsized as a direct result of the ballast water transfer. This tragic maritime accident claimed the lives of all three individuals on board, and they are all presumed to have drowned. Sandra was described as a Caucasian female with blond or strawberry-colored hair and hazel eyes. She had several distinguishing scars on her abdomen, an unknown knee, and her right ring finger. At the time of her disappearance, she was 5'8" and weighed approximately 200 pounds. The disappearance of Sandra Hvatum, Kristen Hvatum, and Russell Farrell is a somber reminder of the unforgiving nature of the sea, particularly in the vast and often treacherous waters of Alaska. The case is a documented maritime loss for 1989, a year that saw several other fishing vessels and their crews meet tragic ends in Alaskan waters. While the immediate cause of the F/V Sequel's capsizing is understood, the profound loss for the families of those who vanished remains. The absence of any recovery of the victims has left their final resting place unknown, a painful reality for their loved ones. The case serves as an overview of the inherent dangers faced by those who make their living on the water and the suddenness with which a routine day can turn into a permanent loss.

Aug 15, 1989

Prince William Sound

Alaska

Valdez–Cordova Census Area

No

45628

Alaska State Troopers

Anchorage

Alaska

Anchorage Borough

99507

Malia Miller

Missing Persons Clearinghouse Manager

5700 East Tudor Road, Alaska

9072695511

State

Law Enforcement

890065672

1989-08-25

Alaska State Troopers

na

Blond/Strawberry

Hazel

Hazel

07/19/2026