Coast Guard rescue swimmer dies from injuries sustained during rescue call

ASTORIA, Ore. (KPTV/Gray News) - A U.S. Coast Guard crew member who was injured during a rescue call last week died.

The Coast Guard confirmed Friday that Aviation Survival Technician Tyler Jaggers died. He was critically injured on Feb. 27 during a medical evacuation mission offshore from Cape Flattery, Washington.

The Coast Guard did not say how Jaggers was injured.

Jaggers was taken to Madigan Army Medical Center where he later died.

“Prior to his passing, he was meritoriously advanced to AST2 for his relentless drive in qualifications, the mentorship he consistently provided to swimmer candidates, and his exceptional performance across operational missions. Additionally, the Commandant of the Coast Guard awarded him the Distinguished Flying Cross – one of our Nation’s highest awards for heroism in aerial flight,” the Coast Guard said in a Facebook post.

Jaggers joined the Coast Guard in January 2022 and served at Air Station Astoria since April 2024. He was previously recognized for superior performance by the secretary of Homeland Security while assigned as a crew member aboard the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Legare during operations in the Caribbean Sea.

The Coast Guard said it is conducting an investigation into Jaggers’ death and will release more information when it is available.

Donations are being collected to support the Jaggers family.