On March 8, 2008, 53-year-old Melody Jane Kassahn and her husband, Norman, disappeared from the remote area of Cordova, Alaska. The couple was known for living a subsistence lifestyle in their home at a location known as Big Point. They were last seen leaving Cordova at high tide in their skiff. Concerns for their welfare arose when relatives were unable to reach Norman on his birthday, March 23rd, and discovered their answering machine was full.
This prompted Melody's brother to check on them, where he observed no smoke coming from their chimney and their skiff missing.
The couple's skiff was later discovered on a mud flat in Hartney Bay, about half a mile from the shore. It appeared to have rolled over. Inside their home, their pets were found starving, indicating the couple had been gone for some time. An ensuing search of the waters around Prince William Sound and Orca Bay did not locate Melody or Norman. However, some of their belongings were found in Canoe Passage, near the northern end of Hawkins Island. These items included life jackets, survival gear, Melody's purse, and a backpack containing their mail. It is believed that strong winds in the area on the day they disappeared may have caused their boat to capsize. At the time of her disappearance, it is believed Melody was wearing a snowmachine suit, green raingear, and size 8 1/2 or 9 Xtratuf boots. She was also likely wearing a wristwatch, her wedding band, and a flotation vest.
Melody and her husband are presumed to have drowned in the tragic boating accident. Despite the recovery of their skiff and some personal effects, their bodies have never been found. The Alaska State Troopers investigated their disappearance. The case serves as a somber reminder of the unforgiving nature of the Alaskan wilderness and the perils of life on the water. The couple's sudden and unexpected disappearance has left a lasting impact on their family and the tight-knit community of Cordova. The overview of the case suggests a tragic accident at sea, with the couple likely succumbing to the harsh elements after their skiff capsized in rough weather.Last Seen: Mar 8, 2008
