VIPD Marine Unit Rescues Fisherman From Savana Island After Dinghy Breaks Down, Ending Hourslong Coast Guard-Led Search

ST. THOMAS — A fisherman reported missing after failing to return from a Thursday trip was rescued Friday morning from Savana Island, ending a multiagency search that covered approximately 430 square nautical miles by air and sea. A V.I. Police Department marine unit found Conrad E. Pondt, 54, stranded on the uninhabited island after his 12-foot gray and white dinghy became disabled. Savana Island is an ecological sanctuary located approximately three miles off the west end of St. Thomas. Mr. Pondt, a resident of the U.S. Virgin Islands, had departed from Krum Bay on a fishing trip Thursday morning but did not return as expected later that afternoon. After his rescue, Emergency Medical Service personnel provided assistance because he was dehydrated. He was otherwise in good health. “We commend the Virgin Islands Police Department unit on a successful rescue and all partner agencies and rescue organizations for their efforts in the search,” said Capt. Robert E. Stiles, Coast Guard ...