HALIFAX – The tragedy off the eastern coast of Nova Scotia on Thursday has led to the loss of two lives following the capsizing of the fishing vessel Fortune Pride. The owner of the boat, Jose Teixeira, confirmed the identities of the deceased: John Allen Baker, the seasoned captain, and Philip MacInnis, the deckhand.
The circumstance of the incident reveals that the Fortune Pride, an 18-meter fishing vessel, was actively engaged in fishing for silver hake before it capsized. The boat overturned while making its return journey with a full catch on board. This unfortunate event took place approximately 18 kilometers southeast of Sambro, Nova Scotia.
Emergency response efforts were initiated when the Signal from an emergency beacon was detected around 10 p.m. on Thursday night. Despite immediate rescue operations, the situation became dire as rescuers found three crew members later that evening; one was reported to be unconscious at the time. The fourth crew member was located in a life raft the following day and was sadly deemed "unresponsive."
Teixeira reported that two other deckhands aboard the Fortune Pride had been released from the hospital following their treatment. The details surrounding the capsizing are under investigation, with the Transportation Safety Board of Canada deploying a team to address the incident and ascertain the factors that contributed to this tragic event.
The loss of John Allen Baker and Philip MacInnis represents a significant blow not only to their families and friends but also to the fishing community in Nova Scotia, where such events can cast a long shadow. The fishing industry, known for both its challenges and rewards, faces scrutiny and a renewed focus on safety protocols following this incident.
This somber event underscores the inherent risks involved in fishing, particularly in regions like eastern Nova Scotia, where unpredictable sea conditions can lead to life-threatening situations. The affected families are now left to navigate the aftermath of this tragedy while the broader community grapples with the implications for safety and operations within the fishing sector.
