A devastating accident has struck a schooner in Rockland Harbor, Maine, claiming the life of one person and leaving three others injured. The heart-wrenching incident occurred when the mast of the Grace Bailey, a 118-foot schooner carrying thirty-three passengers, broke and collapsed onto the deck of the vessel. Prompt response from the United States Coast Guard resulted in the swift dispatch of assistance, but unfortunately, these efforts were not able to prevent the loss of life.
The grim sequence of events unfolded when a distress call reached the New England Command Center around 10 a.m. on Monday. This call was an urgent plea for help as the mast of the Grace Bailey broke, causing severe head and back injuries to four individuals on board. The Coast Guard instantly mobilized, sending a 47-foot motor lifeboat to the scene of the accident. Their primary objective was to provide immediate assistance and ensure the injured received the necessary medical attention.
Despite the best efforts of the Coast Guard and emergency medical services, tragedy struck as one victim succumbed to their injuries. The woman was transferred from the Grace Bailey to Rockland Harbor, where EMS personnel confirmed her tragic passing. Meanwhile, the Coast Guard continued their mission, swiftly transporting the remaining three injured individuals to Rockport’s Pen Bay Medical Center for further treatment. At present, the medical conditions of the injured victims remain undisclosed.
Capt. Amy Florentino, the Coast Guard Sector Northern New England commander, expressed deep condolences to the grieving family and extended heartfelt wishes for a speedy recovery to the injured. Capt. Florentino emphasized that an investigation is already underway to identify the underlying causes of this sorrowful incident. Determining the factors that led to the mast’s failure on the Grace Bailey is of utmost importance to prevent future tragedies and ensure the safety of all maritime activities.
Following the accident, commercial salvage personnel were deployed to the scene to recover and tow the Grace Bailey to Rockport Harbor. There, officials will carry out a thorough investigation into the causes of the mast failure, examining every aspect to gain a comprehensive understanding of what transpired. This investigation not only serves as an essential element in determining accountability but also aims to prevent similar accidents from recurring.
The tragic mast accident that occurred on the Grace Bailey has left a void in the lives of the affected individuals and their loved ones. As investigations unfold, it is our collective hope that valuable lessons will be learned from this heartrending incident. In the face of such a devastating loss, the maritime community mourns the life that was taken and stands united in efforts to enhance safety protocols and ensure the protection of all who embark on seafaring adventures.
