Sam Fowler Missing – A 26-year-old fisherman, Sam Fowler, has been reported missing after his boat capsized off the coast of Mornington, Melbourne, late on Friday night, October 24, 2025. The tragic incident occurred about one kilometer from Mornington Pier in Port Phillip Bay, sparking a massive search and rescue operation that lasted through the weekend.
According to authorities, the alarm was raised around 11:15 p.m. when a small fishing vessel carrying two men overturned in rough conditions. Emergency services, including the Victoria Police Water Police, Air Wing, and the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard, were immediately dispatched to the area.
One of the men aboard the vessel was rescued shortly after the accident and treated for minor injuries. Unfortunately, Sam Fowler, the second occupant, did not resurface. Despite exhaustive search efforts over several days, there has been no sign of the missing fisherman.
Search operations continued throughout Saturday and Sunday, involving boats, helicopters, and volunteers combing the coastline. However, after nearly three days without success, authorities announced on Monday, October 27, that the official search would be scaled back. Police cited diminishing hopes of finding Mr. Fowler alive due to the time elapsed and the conditions of the water.
In a heartbreaking public statement released Monday, Sam Fowler’s family expressed their grief and gratitude toward emergency crews and community volunteers who had joined in the search.
“We are devastated by the loss of our beloved Sam,” the family wrote. “He loved the sea and fishing was his passion. We want to thank everyone who helped in the search and who have shown us kindness and support during this unimaginable time.”
The family’s reference to his “loss” suggests they believe Sam did not survive the accident. Friends and fellow fishermen have since gathered near Mornington Pier to lay flowers and pay tribute to him, remembering Fowler as a dedicated fisherman and loyal friend known for his calm spirit and love of the ocean.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances that led to the capsizing, including weather conditions, equipment failure, and potential safety oversights. Police have urged local residents and boaters in the Port Phillip Bay area to remain vigilant and report any sightings or debris that could assist in locating Mr. Fowler.
Although the search has been scaled down, police divers and local marine authorities are expected to conduct periodic sweeps in the area over the coming days.
The disappearance of Sam Fowler has deeply affected the Mornington community. Local fishermen have expressed solidarity with the family, with many calling for enhanced safety measures and better weather monitoring systems for small fishing vessels operating in the bay.
As of October 27, 2025, Sam Fowler remains missing and is presumed dead. His family continues to receive support from local residents and fishing groups as they await further updates from authorities.