Merchant Mariner Goes Overboard in Guam, Search and Rescue Suspended

According to a Navy press release, a merchant mariner aboard the USNS Maj. Stephen W. Pless fell overboard from the wing of the vessel into the waters off Guam on Sunday.

A search and rescue procedure was initiated immediately after a “man overboard” notice was delivered to the captain. Lighted life rings, an orange smoke device, and two life boats were deployed into the water, as well as Naval helicopter units aerial searching.

It is believed that the body was sighted by a Navy helicopter on Monday afternoon, but poor weather conditions with sea swells of 6-7 feet and wind of 25-30 knots left the search and rescue teams unable to retrieve him. On Monday evening, the U.S. Coast Guard District 14 ordered to suspend the search due to continued rough sea and wind conditions.

The mariner in question is believed to be the chief mate. There are 26 contracted crewmembers aboard the Pless.

This incident is still under investigation.