BERLIN, Md. (AP/WJZ) — The U.S. Coast Guard says one man was rescued and two men are still missing after a fishing vessel became disabled 15 miles east of Assateague Island.

The Coast Guard received a radio beacon alert about 10:40 a.m. Wednesday from the Seafarer. Officials say the ship had become disabled and its sister ship was towing it.

Authorities say the weather worsened and the ship lost the tow and sight of the Seafarer.

The Coast Guard sent a helicopter to the area and rescued a man from a lifeboat. He was taken to a Salisbury hospital. Authorities are searching for two other men reported missing.

A 47-foot Motor Life Boat crew from Station Chincoteague was deployed to search the area.

On scene weather is reported at 30-40 mph winds and 8-12-foot seas.

Late Wednesday, the Coast Guard suspended the search until sunrise Thursday.

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