The U.S. Coast Guard has identified the seven individuals who perished when the commercial fishing vessel Lily Jean sank off the coast of Massachusetts. The vessel sent an emergency signal at approximately 6:50 a.m. Friday, while located 25 miles off Cape Ann.
Search and Recovery Efforts
Following the activation of the emergency beacon, the Coast Guard attempted communication with the Lily Jean without success. An urgent marine broadcast was issued, and search efforts were initiated involving an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter from Air Station Cape Cod, a small boat crew from the Gloucester Coast Guard station, and the Coast Guard Cutter Thunder Bay.
Rescue crews discovered a debris field consistent with the location of the emergency signal and recovered one body. A life raft associated with the Lily Jean was located, but was unoccupied. After searching over 1,000 square miles, the Coast Guard suspended active searching for the remaining six individuals on Saturday.
Victims Identified
On Monday, the Coast Guard released the names of those lost: Captain Accursio “Gus” Sanfilippo, and crew members Paul Beals Sr., Paul Beals Jr., John Rousanidis, Freeman Short, Sean Therrien, and Jada Samitt, a fisheries observer with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Family of Jada Samitt shared a statement emphasizing her dedication to her work, stating she “believed in her work…not only as an observer, but as someone who knew her important role as a crew member” and her commitment to protecting marine resources. Massachusetts State Senator Bruce Tarr, who knew Captain Sanfilippo, described the vessel as being operated by a “skilled, wise and experienced” skipper, adding to the shock of the loss.
Investigation Underway
Rear Admiral Michael Platt, commander of the Coast Guard’s Northeast District, has initiated a formal investigation into the sinking. The Coast Guard stated that investigations of this nature are launched for incidents of regional significance or those that may reveal broader safety concerns. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will assist in the investigation, and will determine if a more comprehensive Marine Board of Investigation is warranted.
The investigation is expected to take several months to complete. Officials have clarified that the purpose of the investigation is to identify measures to improve safety at sea.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time did the Coast Guard first respond to the emergency?
The Coast Guard responded to the emergency position-indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) activation from the Lily Jean at approximately 6:50 a.m. on Friday.
How large of an area did the Coast Guard search?
The Coast Guard covered more than 1,000 square miles during the search for the missing crew members.
Who is assisting the Coast Guard with the investigation?
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will assist the Coast Guard in its investigation of the casualties.
As the investigation proceeds, it could lead to recommendations regarding vessel safety standards or crew training. It remains to be seen whether the investigation will uncover specific factors that contributed to the sinking, and what steps might be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
