Offshore staff
NEW ORLEANS – The US Coast Guard is suspending its search on Monday for the missing Seacor Power liftboat crew members.
Of the 19 crew members onboard the liftboat when it capsized on April 13, five have died, eight remain missing, and six were rescued.
Coast Guard boat and aircrews, local agency crews and good Samaritans searched for a cumulative 175 hours, covering more than 9,200 square nautical miles.
Capt. Will Watson, commander of Coast Guard Sector New Orleans, said: “We extend our appreciation to everyone who volunteered to assist during the search effort. Suspending a search is one of the toughest decisions the Coast Guard has to make.
“Our crews searched continuously over the past six days with the hope of bringing the missing crew members home to their loved ones. I would like to extend my deepest and most sincere condolences to the families, friends and loved ones--all those impacted by this terrible tragedy. I know that this is an immensely difficult time for you all, and for the entire maritime community.”
Andrew Ehlers, marine accident investigator, National Transportation Safety Board, said the investigation of the accident is expected to take between one and two years.
04/19/2021
