A United States Coast Guard rescue swimmer died Thursday evening from injuries suffered during a rescue mission off the Washington coast late last month, officials confirmed.
Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyler Jaggers, an aviation survival tech assigned to Air Station Astoria, was critically injured while rescuing a mariner from a commercial ship in distress off the Oregon coast on February 27. Jaggers was rushed to Victoria General Hospital in British Columbia for treatment and was later transferred to Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Tacoma. USCG officials said they’ve opened an investigation into what caused Jagger’s injuries during the rescue.
“During a ceremony attended by his family and fellow crew members from Air Station Astoria, the Coast Guard recognized Jaggers’ remarkable courage by meritorious advancement to Petty Officer Second Class and award of the Distinguished Flying Cross, one of the highest military awards for heroism during aerial flight,” the U.S. Coast Guard said. “He succumbed to his injuries and passed away shortly after.”
Sen. Suzanne Weber, R-Tillamook, tearfully announced Jaggers’ passing during courtesies on the Senate floor Friday morning at the state Capitol. “Sadly, this morning we learned he had succumbed to his injuries. He gave all so that others could live,” Weber said. “Colleagues, this is personal for many in my district and in my office. If not for the bravery of the Coast Guard and swimmers like Tyler, many more lives would be lost at sea. To Tyler’s family, please know that Oregon stands beside you. You are not alone. Keep his family in your thoughts and prayers.”
Jaggers joined the Coast Guard in January of 2022 and served at Air Station Astoria since April of 2024. He previously was recognized for superior performance by the Secretary of Homeland Security when he was assigned to operations in the Caribbean Sea. “Aviation Survival Technician Jaggers represented the very best of our Service and the Aviation Rescue Swimmer community,” said Admiral Kevin Lunday, Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard. “He demonstrated extraordinary heroism in the face of danger, upholding the highest standards of courage and excellence for Coast Guard operations. We honor his selfless actions and unwavering devotion to our highest calling: to save others. His family has our deepest condolences and steadfast support, and we continue to honor their privacy during this very difficult time.”
Cannon Beach Fire paid tribute to Jaggers earlier this week. The rescue swimmer’s death highlights the extreme risks Coast Guard personnel face during maritime rescue operations, where conditions can change rapidly and rescuers put themselves in mortal danger to save others.
