The investigation into the shipwreck of the “Virgem Dolorosa” has been officially archived, with authorities concluding that the tragedy was an accident devoid of criminal responsibility.
Investigation Concludes No Negligence
A ruling from the Marinha Grande Section of the Department of Investigation and Criminal Action, dated March 10, stated that no evidence of negligence was found regarding the captain or the crew. The document specifically noted a lack of “acts of incúria” or poor actions that contributed to the event.
The Public Prosecutor, who determined the archiving of the inquiry, further noted that there were no indications of criminal responsibility involving third parties. The ruling concludes that while the consequences were tragic, the event was an accident.
Details of the Tragedy
The shipwreck occurred on July 3 at 04:20, approximately one nautical mile from the coastline in front of Olho do Samouco beach in Marinha Grande, Leiria. The vessel was engaged in purse seine fishing for sardines at the time of the incident.
Of the 17 crew members on board, 11 were rescued alive. Six people perished in the accident; all six victims resided in Lavos, Figueira da Foz, which is also the location of the company that owned the coastal fishing vessel.
Recovery Operations
Search efforts recovered three bodies on the day of the shipwreck. The remaining three missing crew members were located a week later, on July 10.
According to the National Maritime Authority, these final three bodies were discovered during refloating operations. They were found beneath several “dornas”—large containers located on the deck of the sunken vessel off the coast of Samouco beach.
Possible Next Steps
With the criminal inquiry archived, legal proceedings regarding criminal liability are likely to conclude. Future developments may potentially focus on civil matters or insurance claims related to the loss of the vessel and its crew, although no such actions are currently detailed in the official ruling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the shipwreck of the “Virgem Dolorosa” take place?
The vessel sank one nautical mile from the coast, in front of Olho do Samouco beach in Marinha Grande, Leiria.
How many crew members were lost in the accident?
Six crew members died, all of whom were residents of Lavos, Figueira da Foz.
Why did the Public Prosecutor decide to archive the investigation?
The investigation was archived because no evidence of negligence by the captain or crew was found, nor was there any evidence of criminal responsibility by third parties.
How should maritime safety protocols be evaluated when a tragedy is ruled a non-criminal accident?
