Derelict Boat Found Afloat In Lake Tapps

BONNEY LAKE, WA — The Pierce County Sheriff's Department is looking for the owner of a derelict paddle boat found floating in Lake Tapps earlier this week.

According to deputies, the boat was found floating offshore near Tacoma Point Dr E Thursday afternoon. It has a teal exterior and a cream interior.

If you or someone you know is missing your boat, it is in the custody of the Pierce County Sheriff's Department. Deputies say to claim the boat, call their South Hill Precinct at (253) 798-3278. They'll ask for the hull identification number and for the owner to describe any other unique markings that may have been left on the boat, to verify it goes to its real owner.

While that is sorted out, deputies say it's a good reminder to keep track of your valuables. Each year, deputies recover all sorts of missing bicycles, kayaks, paddle boats and more, but often can't get them back to their owners because the owners either don't claim them, or don't have the necessary proof that they're theirs. Before you lose a valuable, deputies say to take a photo of it, use a permanent marker to mark it with your name, or just make sure you know your serial numbers, so you can get your property back.