The Seattle Times reported yesterday that fisherman Bryson Fitch, a crew member of the Ethel May, remains lost at sea more than 6 weeks after the vessel capsized near Willapa Bay on February 5th, 2023. Fitch, a crab fisherman, husband, and father of three, is the only crew member still unaccounted for. Mark Nowlin of The Seattle Times writes “Fitch’s fate was a brutal reminder of the perils of the Willapa Bay bar, and of the risks of the Pacific Northwest Dungeness crab fishery, which since 2000 has claimed 49 lives and ranks as one of the deadliest fisheries in the country.”
At GLP Attorneys, we understand firsthand why commercial crabbing is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous industries – maritime or otherwise. Attorneys in our Maritime Injuries practice group, who are representing an injured crewman rescued from the Ethel May, are experienced mariners and commercial fishermen themselves. “As a Pacific Northwest native, I hold a deep appreciation for all commercial fishermen. GLP Attorneys is passionate about delivering justice for clients with the greatest levels of empathy and respect – and holding those negligent to the highest level of accountability,” said James Gooding, an attorney and Shareholder at the firm who heads the group .
Our firm has represented crabbers injured on the job, including injuries resulting from boat sinkings, bait choppers, pot launchers, malfunctioning power blocks, and improperly spliced lines. If you or a loved one has been injured at sea, on the water, or near the water, call GLP Attorneys at 800.273.5005, or email our attorneys at attorneys@glpattorneys.com to schedule your free consultation with an experienced maritime injury lawyer.
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