BOSTON (AP) — A fishing vessel named the Lily Jean has gone missing off the coast of Massachusetts, prompting a search and rescue operation by the U.S. Coast Guard. Senator Bruce Tarr confirmed that the vessel was carrying a crew of seven people.
The Coast Guard initiated the search early Friday after receiving an emergency alert from the 72-foot boat, which was located approximately 25 miles off Cape Ann. They discovered a debris field in the vicinity, along with an unresponsive body in the water, as they continued their search efforts into the evening.
Captain Gus Sanfilippo, who leads the Lily Jean, is a fifth-generation commercial fisherman known for working in the challenging conditions of the Atlantic. The vessel and its crew were previously featured on a History Channel program, Nor’Easter Men, that showcased the arduous nature of deep-sea fishing.
Upon launching the search, the Coast Guard utilized an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter, a small boat crew, and the Coast Guard Cutter Thunder Bay. They reported finding one unresponsive person and an empty life raft during their operation.
As the search unfolded, Gloucester's history of maritime tragedies resurfaced in public conversations. Gloucester is recognized as America’s oldest working seaport, where the local fishing community has endured numerous losses at sea over the years, including the infamous sinking of the Andrea Gail in 1991.
Vito Giacalone, a community leader and colleague of Sanfilippo, lamented the devastating impact of this incident on the tight-knit fishing community, emphasizing the long-standing tradition and history associated with commercial fishing in Gloucester.
Deep-sea fishing remains known as one of the most perilous professions, particularly during the winter months when conditions can become treacherous. area of loss and uncertainty, leaving family members in a state of hope and heartbreak.
The responsible authorities continue their search as they navigate challenging weather conditions, including wind speeds of roughly 27 mph and low water temperatures.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey expressed her sorrow and solidarity with the families affected, reiterating the importance of fishermen to the state's cultural and economic fabric.
