Massachusetts State Police

Coast Guard, Police Search for Missing Kayaker Last Seen on Saugus River

Authorities spent Tuesday searching for a man who went on a kayaking trip on the Saugus River earlier in the day and failed to return.

The United States Coast Guard, Massachusetts State Police and local police began searching for Craig Dustin Sr., 72, of Saugus, at about 2:30 p.m.

Authorities said Dustin was last seen at about 11 a.m. when he departed from a boat ramp near Fox Hill Yacht Club.

When Dustin failed to return home, his son Keith went out looking for him and noticed his father's vehicle outside the club, prompting him to alert authorities.

"We knew something wasn’t right," said Keith Dustin. "If you can help, my father needs your help."

The elder Dustin launched from Tom’s Bait and Tackle where he’s a regular customer.

The shop’s owner, Tom Falasca, who’s also the Saugus Harbormaster, said it was windy, foggy and rainy on the water.

"The conditions weren’t favorable for any type of boating," said Falasca.

Dustin, who is believed to be wearing a life jacket, was in a red and yellow kayak.

The Coast Guard and several first responders went out searching for hours, but weren't able to locate Dustin Tuesday night.

"He’s a good man," said Keith Dustin. "We just want him back safe and sound."

The search wrapped up for the evening just before 11 p.m. and is scheduled to resume first thing Wednesday morning.

Contact Us