Coast Guard searches for fishing boat in distress off Jersey Shore

UPDATE: Coast Guard search for missing fishing boat 40 miles off N.J. coast grows desperate (this story has the latest information)

The Coast Guard is searching for a 46-foot fishing boat that was reported to be distress and went missing early Thursday about 40 miles off the Jersey Shore.

Someone aboard the Queen Ann's Revenge reported the vessel was in trouble around 1:20 a.m., the Coast Guard said Thursday morning. Another fishing boat found debris in the ocean, according to the Coast Guard.

The Coast Guard's Atlantic City station sent an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter to assist in the search.

Among the vessels canvassing the area are a 47-foot Motor Life Boat and an HC-130 Hercules plane. The Coast Guard Cutter Lawrence Lawson was en route as of 10:20 a.m.

A spokesman for the Coast Guard told NJ Advance Media he didn't know where the Queen Ann's Revenge originated on its fishing trip or how many people are aboard.

Mariners who see any debris are asked to call sector Delaware Bay watch standers at 215-271-4940.

Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JeffSGoldman. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

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