1 Dead, 6 Fishermen Missing After Gloucester Fishing Vessel Sinks in Freezing Atlantic Waters
A maritime tragedy struck Gloucester, America’s oldest fishing port, when the commercial fishing vessel Lily Jean sank in the frigid Atlantic Ocean Friday morning. The U.S. Coast Guard was alerted by the boat’s emergency beacon after no mayday call was received.
Rescuers discovered one crew member deceased, floating in the water, along with debris and an empty lifeboat. Six fishermen remain missing as the search continues amid harsh winter conditions.
The Lily Jean, a 72-foot vessel, belonged to Gloucester fishing veteran Gus Sanfilippo, a fifth-generation fisherman featured in the History Channel’s Nor’Easter Men. Known for his skill and dedication, Sanfilippo and his crew have long navigated the challenging waters of Georges Bank, often enduring long, dangerous trips for haddock, lobster, and flounder.
The Coast Guard highlighted the extreme dangers posed by freezing spray, stormy seas, and dropping temperatures, warning that the ongoing search is like “searching for a coconut in the ocean.” At the time of the sinking, water temperatures were around 39°F (4°C) with winds of 27 mph (24 knots) and four-foot waves.
Vito Giacalone of the Gloucester Fishing Community Preservation Fund described the loss as devastating for a close-knit community built around generations of fishermen. “He was hardworking and deeply respected,” Giacalone said.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration confirmed a fishery observer was onboard the vessel at the time of the incident, underlining the broader impact on fisheries monitoring efforts.
Gloucester Council President Tony Gross and Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey both expressed heartbreak and support for the families of the missing crew. Healey called the event “a terrible loss felt across the state,” emphasizing the importance of fishermen to Gloucester’s history, culture, and economy.
With winter storms approaching, search and rescue operations are ongoing, as the community prays for the safe return of the missing crew members.
