Home / Disasters and Accidents / Cornwall Coast Search: Skipper Missing After Boat Wreck
Cornwall Coast Search: Skipper Missing After Boat Wreck
8 Mar
Summary
- Skipper David Fretwell, 75, is missing after his boat wrecked.
- Wreckage found on Hayle beach in Cornwall on March 6, 2026.
- Extensive search launched involving coastguard, lifeboats, and helicopter.
Concerns are mounting for the welfare of skipper David Fretwell, a 75-year-old man who is currently missing. His vessel, named Green Goddess, was discovered broken apart on Hayle beach in Cornwall on Friday, March 6, 2026. The discovery prompted an immediate and extensive search operation.
Rescuers were alerted to the wreckage around 8:05 AM on March 6. HM Coastguard, along with coastguard rescue teams from St Ives, Portreath, and Penzance, were dispatched. A HM Coastguard helicopter and two RNLI lifeboats from St Ives also joined the extensive search efforts. Devon and Cornwall Police were informed and have issued an appeal for public assistance.
Debris from the shattered boat, including hull fragments, lifejackets, gas canisters, and personal items, was found scattered across Mexico Towans beach. Mr. Fretwell, described as a white male, slim build, with short grey hair, and approximately 5ft 7in, was last believed to have been travelling along the north Cornwall coast, passing Padstow and Newquay before reaching the St Ives area on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.
The coastguard concluded its initial response at approximately 2:30 PM on March 6, pending any new information. Police are urging anyone who has seen David Fretwell or knows of his whereabouts to contact them immediately on 999, quoting log number 247 06/03/26. The search continues.
