Fishing Boat Lily Jean Sinks Near Gloucester: One Dead, Six Missing

On Friday morning, tragedy struck near Gloucester, Massachusetts, when the fishing boat Lily Jean sank, resulting in the loss of one life and leaving six people missing. The 72-foot vessel submerged approximately 25 miles from Cape Ann after activating its emergency beacon at around 6:50 a.m.

Coast Guard Response and Search Efforts

The U.S. Coast Guard promptly launched an extensive search operation that included helicopters and boats. They discovered a debris field along with a recovered body in the vicinity. The water temperature at the site was reported to be around 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Timothy Jones from the Coast Guard noted that there had been no Mayday distress call from the Lily Jean. Upon arrival, search teams found no trace of the ship above water, only remnants scattered from the sinking vessel. A life raft from the boat was located, but it was empty at the time.

Details of the Incident

The Coast Guard believes the Lily Jean was returning filled with fish when it encountered difficulties with its fishing gear, prompting the crew to head back for repairs. The identity of the deceased and the missing crew members has not yet been disclosed.

Community Reaction

Local officials are expressing their condolences. State Senator Bruce Tarr commended the skills and character of the vessel’s skipper, noting his longstanding reputation in the fishing community. The situation has deeply affected local fishermen, with Al Cottone, the Director of Fisheries in Gloucester, expressing the personal nature of the tragedy to many in the fishing brotherhood.

Continued Search Efforts

Search operations will persist throughout the night, utilizing MH-60 Jayhawk helicopters and Coast Guard cutters. Jones stated, “We will continue to search throughout the night with the cutter, hoping to find additional crew members.” The local atmosphere has turned somber, with flowers placed at the Gloucester Fisherman’s Memorial in memory of those involved.

Government Response

Governor Maura Healey expressed her heartbreak over the incident, extending prayers for the crew and their families. She emphasized the importance of fishermen and their vessels to the heritage and economy of Gloucester and Cape Ann, stating that this tragedy resonates throughout the entire state.

Location Details

• Location of Incident: 25 miles off the coast of Cape Ann, Massachusetts
• Local Significance: Gloucester is approximately 35 miles northeast of Boston.