Six Dead and Seven Missing After Fishing Boat Capsizes Off Falkland Islands

Six Dead and Seven Missing After Fishing Boat Capsizes Off Falkland Islands

In a tragic incident, six crew members have been confirmed dead and seven remain missing after a fishing boat capsized off the coast of the Falkland Islands. The vessel, identified as the FV Calypso, encountered treacherous conditions late last night, leading to the devastating accident. The search and rescue operations are currently ongoing, with hopes of finding the missing crew members alive.

The FV Calypso, a 45-meter commercial fishing vessel registered in the Falkland Islands, was on a routine fishing expedition in the South Atlantic Ocean when it encountered severe weather conditions. The boat capsized approximately 50 nautical miles east of Stanley, the capital of the Falkland Islands.

At around 11:30 PM local time, a distress signal was received by the Falkland Islands Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC). The MRCC immediately dispatched search and rescue teams, including the Royal Falkland Islands Police (RFIP), the Falkland Islands Government Air Service (FIGAS), and nearby fishing vessels to the scene.

The search and rescue operation, led by Commander Sarah MacDonald of the RFIP, has been hampered by rough seas and strong winds. Despite these challenging conditions, rescuers have been working tirelessly to locate the missing crew members.

“We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident,” said Commander MacDonald. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased and the missing crew members. We are doing everything in our power to find the missing and bring them home safely.”

As of the latest reports, six bodies have been recovered from the water. The identities of the deceased have not yet been released, pending notification of their families. The search for the remaining seven crew members is ongoing, with air and sea assets combing the area.

The small, close-knit community of the Falkland Islands has been profoundly affected by this tragedy. Local residents have gathered to support the families of the crew members, offering prayers and assistance during this difficult time. Vigils are being held in Stanley and surrounding areas to honor the victims and express solidarity with their loved ones.

“Words cannot express the sorrow we feel for the families affected by this tragedy,” said Governor Alison Blake of the Falkland Islands. “The entire community is coming together to support them, and we will provide all the necessary resources to assist in the search and rescue operations.”

An investigation into the cause of the capsizing has been launched by the Falkland Islands Maritime Authority. Early indications suggest that the vessel may have encountered a rogue wave, but further analysis is required to determine the exact circumstances leading to the accident.

Maritime safety experts, including representatives from the vessel’s owner, Southern Ocean Fisheries Ltd., are cooperating with the investigation. The company’s CEO, Peter Williams, expressed his deep condolences to the families of the victims and pledged full support for the ongoing rescue efforts and investigation.

“We are devastated by this tragic loss,” said Williams. “Our priority is to support the families of our crew members and to work closely with the authorities to understand what happened and prevent such incidents in the future.”

The Falkland Islands Government has set up a support center for the families of the crew members, providing counseling and assistance. In addition, a helpline has been established for those seeking information about their loved ones.