The search operation for a crew member from the UK Navy who went missing off the north-west coast of Ireland has sadly been halted. A comprehensive search effort involving multiple agencies was initiated on Saturday following a distress call received by the Irish Coast Guard from a UK naval support vessel, the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) Tidesurge. The crew member was last sighted around 10:30 pm on Friday between Tory Island, Co Donegal, and Eagle Island, Co Mayo. The identity of the missing crew member has not been disclosed, respecting the family’s privacy.
Defence Secretary John Healey expressed deep sorrow, confirming that despite extensive search efforts, the missing crew member of RFA Tidesurge remains unaccounted for. He extended condolences to the crew member’s family and colleagues, acknowledging the swift response and dedicated efforts of Irish authorities, RNLI, Royal Air Force, and Royal Navy in the search operation.
A spokesperson from the Ministry of Defence informed that despite thorough search operations, the missing crew member has not been located, leading to the conclusion of the search mission. The family has been notified, and an investigation into the incident is underway, with no additional individuals reported missing or harmed.
The search operation involved collaboration among the Irish Coast Guard, Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, RNLI, and Irish authorities under the coordination of the Irish Coast Guard maritime rescue sub-center at Malin. Air search operations were conducted by the Coast Guard’s fixed-wing aircraft Rescue 120F, the Coast Guard helicopter Rescue 118, and the Irish Air Corps plane CASA 284. Additionally, a sea search was coordinated by the UK naval support vessel and three RNLI weather lifeboats stationed at Ballyglass, Arranmore Island, and Lough Swilly.
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