YACHATS, Ore. (AP) — A juvenile humpback whale stranded near Yachats is scheduled to be euthanized after a rescue effort failed, according to marine biologist Carrie Newell.

The whale was first reported Saturday evening near San Marine State Park, apparently tangled in crabbing gear. Volunteers spent the night digging trenches, pouring water on the whale, and using towels to keep it cool.

On Monday morning, rescuers tried to rig a bridle and rope to pull the animal back toward deeper water, but the rope snapped and the bridle slipped, ending the attempt.

As high tide approached again, officials said the whale’s condition had deteriorated and a veterinarian was preparing to humanely euthanize it to prevent further suffering.

Lisa Ballance of the Marine Mammal Institute at Oregon State U

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