Michael Lyda Missing Person Case

Mar 17, 2020

May 15, 2024

Michael

Lyda

56

31

73 inches

210 lbs

White / Caucasian

Male

In the harsh and unforgiving environment of the Bering Sea, a then 31-year-old fisherman named Michael Lynn Lyda vanished on February 23, 1999. A long-time commercial fisherman, he was working aboard the 148-foot fishing vessel, the Sea Fisher, when the incident occurred. The vessel, based out of Dillingham, Alaska, was navigating through rough waters approximately 60 miles west of St. Paul Island at the time of his disappearance. Lyda, who also went by the names Mike Lyda and Lyda L Lyda, was reportedly wearing either orange or green rain gear and black boots when he was last seen. The circumstances surrounding Michael's disappearance point to a tragic accident at sea. It is reported that he was struck by a crab pot before falling overboard into the turbulent waters of the Bering Sea. The conditions at the time were described as rough, a common and dangerous reality for those who make their living in the commercial fishing industry in Alaska. Given the perilous situation, it is presumed that Michael drowned in the frigid waters. The Alaska State Troopers were the investigating agency in his case. Despite the passage of time, the case of Michael Lyda remains a somber reminder of the dangers faced by fishermen. The official report of his disappearance was made on March 2, 1999. His case is a testament to the unforgiving nature of the sea and the inherent risks of the profession he chose. The overview of this case highlights a sudden and tragic event where a man dedicated to his work was lost to the sea, leaving behind unanswered questions and a lasting sense of loss.

Feb 23, 1999

Dillingham

Alaska

Dillingham Census Area

No

77755

Alaska State Troopers

Anchorage

Alaska

Anchorage Borough

99507

Malia Miller

Missing Persons Clearinghouse Manager

5700 East Tudor Road, Alaska

9072695511

State

Law Enforcement

990013534

1999-03-02

Alaska State Troopers

na

Brown

Brown

Brown

07/02/2026