Search called off for missing woman
The U.S. Coast Guard called off its search Wednesday afternoon for a Bellevue woman last seen aboard Tuesday’s 10:55 p.m. ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge.
Lynn Stafford-Yilmaz, 45, was reported missing after her van was found unattended on the ferry Puyallup when it arrived in Eagle Harbor. Personal items belonging to Stafford-Yilmaz were found on the passenger deck, according to the Washington State Patrol.
A Coast Guard helicopter and boat began searching Puget Sound Tuesday night, assisted by marine units from Seattle Police Department and Bainbridge Police Department. In a statement released Wednesday, Cmdr. Michael Long, chief of response for Coast Guard Sector Seattle said the search had been exhaustive.
“We have saturated the search area and have not located anyone. Our thoughts are with the family during this difficult time,” Long said.
The Coast Guard is asking mariners to report any signs of distress on the water by calling the Coast Guard or 911.
WSP was continuing to investigate the disappearance Thursday, Sgt. Trent Cain said.
“We have no confirmation that someone fell overboard and no confirmation that she walked off the ferry,” Cain said.
Stafford-Yilmaz is described as a white female, 5 foot, 5 inches tall and 130 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes.
WSP is asking anyone with information regarding her whereabouts to call Det. Dave Killeen at (360) 406-6650.
Check www.bainbridgereview.com for updates.
City to reduce counter hours
The City of Bainbridge Island will reduce counter hours at its public works engineering department, effective Jan. 21.
Counter service will close at noon on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Regular 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. counter hours will remain for Monday, Tuesday and Friday.
City hall will remain open and public works personnel will accept pre-arranged appointments during Wednesday and Thursday afternoon.
The measure is aimed at increasing efficiency in the department, according to a release from the city.
Planned improvements include updating permit application forms for user-friendliness, revising and improving design and construction standards, capital bid documents, bidding processes and capital cost estimating.
