Matthew Finley Identified as 67-Year-Old Fortuna Man Found Offshore Humboldt Bay

Humboldt County authorities have identified the person recovered offshore of Humboldt Bay on Feb. 4, 2026, as 67-year-old Matthew Finley of Fortuna, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office said in a Feb. 5 press release. The office said the investigation is ongoing, the cause and manner of death have not yet been determined, and an autopsy is scheduled for Tuesday.

Officials say Mr. Finley’s next of kin have been notified. The sheriff’s office extended its sympathy in an official statement: “The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office extends its heartfelt sympathy to Mr. Finley’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.” The release urged anyone with information to contact law enforcement: “Anyone with information about this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at (707) 445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at (707) 268-2539.”

Local reporting indicates the body was first seen by people working or recreating on the water. Some outlets said the discovery was made by crabbers, while others described the initial sighting as “someone out fishing” or by local fishermen. The county release and local coverage also say the U.S. Coast Guard made the recovery. One local television report used a weekday phrasing that differs from the calendar date in the sheriff’s release; the county’s Feb. 4 calendar date is the basis for this account.

The identification and pending autopsy leave many questions for Fortuna and Humboldt County residents. Fortuna is a small community where news of a local resident’s death on the water resonates with commercial and recreational fishers, crabbers, and families who live close to the bay. Online community reaction has been immediate; one commenter wrote, “Praying for the family. Rest Easy Sir,” while another expressed concern about ocean conditions and sneaker waves: “I was very sad to read that some local fisherman found the body of Matthew Finley deceased. … It makes me wonder if the sneaker waves are to blame for this. The waves can catch you in a matter of seconds and take you out to sea. The ocean is very unforgiving, so please be aware of your surroundings and never turn your back to the ocean.”

Authorities have not released a time of discovery, the identity of the person or vessel that first reported the body, or any further identifying details about Mr. Finley. The sheriff’s office and federal rescue partners are the primary sources of official information; medical examiner findings from the scheduled autopsy will determine cause and manner of death.

For now, the numbers provided by the sheriff’s office are the clearest route for tips or information: (707) 445-7251 and the Crime Tip line at (707) 268-2539. Humboldt County residents can expect updates as investigators and the coroner complete their work and as authorities respond to community concerns about safety around the bay.