When someone spots distress flares off the coast, you’d expect a flurry of action—and there was. But now, just as quickly as the search began, it’s been called off.

The mystery? A boat vanished near Cannon Beach, Oregon, and no one seems to know who was on board, what kind of vessel it was, or even if anyone is missing.

Vanished Without a Trace

Late Thursday night, someone onshore saw what looked like a series of distress flares coming from a boat about two miles out from Cannon Beach.

According to the U.S. Coast Guard, the witness reported around five flares coming from the front of a vessel at around 9:30 p.m.

By Friday morning, rescue teams had combed the waters using boats, a helicopter, and even a plane—hoping to spot survivors, debris, or any clear signs of trouble. But they came up empty.

What Did They Find?

Initially, searchers spotted some floating debris—a seat cushion, fiberglass, and even a ketchup bottle.

For a brief moment, they thought they had a lead. But by Friday afternoon, the Coast Guard updated the public with some disappointing news: it was just everyday ocean trash, not wreckage from a sunken vessel.

No radio signals, no mayday calls, and not a single report of a missing person have come in from that area.

It’s as if the flares were fired by a ghost ship.

The Search Is Suspended—for Now

At 10:40 a.m. on Friday, after nearly a full day of searching, the Coast Guard made the tough call to suspend the active search efforts.

Teams from Tillamook Bay and Air Station Astoria were involved but found no evidence to keep the mission going.

Still, they’re keeping an open line.

If anyone saw anything or knows someone who hasn’t returned from the water, the Coast Guard wants to hear from them.

The contact number for the Sector Columbia River Command Center is 833-769-8724.

Safety Reminder for All Boaters

With summer approaching and more people heading out on the water, officials used this incident as a chance to remind boaters to be cautious and prepared.

Lt. Chris Butters of the Coast Guard emphasized the importance of letting someone know your plans before setting sail.

“We encourage everyone who goes out on the water to file a float plan,” he said.

“Let someone know—‘If we’re not back by this time, contact the Coast Guard.’

It could save lives.”