Apparent Human Remains Found in Wreckage Believed to Be from Boat That Sunk on New Year’s Day in 2019

A significant development has emerged off the coast of Rhode Island, as the nonprofit organisation Green Oceans has announced the discovery of a shipwreck believed to be the long-lost fishing vessel, F/V Mistress. The fishing boat sank on New Year’s Day in 2019, leading to a tragic incident where two fishermen lost their lives. The revelation comes at a time when many hope this discovery will provide answers and potentially closure for the families affected by the tragedy.

Green Oceans, which focuses on the health of the oceans, revealed on September 22 that their sponsored investigation located the wreck near Block Island. In addition to the shipwreck, the team also discovered what appears to be human remains, raising further concerns and questions regarding the circumstances surrounding the sinking. Michael Lombardi, president of Green Oceans, expressed hope that the findings would assist in bringing solace to the victims’ families. He stated, “We have provided the new evidence to federal authorities and requested that the wreck site be secured immediately for an appropriate forensic analysis.”

The F/V Mistress encountered severe conditions on the day of its sinking, including strong winds and low visibility, compounded by its proximity to the Block Island Wind Farm. According to reports, the incident claimed the lives of Captain Oscar Diaz and his nephew, John Ansay Jr. Fortunately, the captain’s son was rescued by another vessel present in the area.

Green Oceans has been in contact with various federal agencies, including the U.S. Coast Guard and the National Transportation Safety Board, to share images and evidence obtained during the investigation. The U.S. Coast Guard had previously closed the case on the F/V Mistress and designated it as “lost,” having failed to locate the vessel or uncover the circumstances surrounding its sinking.

The recent discovery was made in approximately 92 feet of water, just 50 feet from the base of the first turbine of the Block Island Wind Farm. Marine professionals involved in the investigation believe that specific features of the wreck, including its propeller and shaft, fuel tanks, and processing equipment, indicate that it is indeed the F/V Mistress. However, a formal identification has yet to be confirmed.

In light of these findings, Green Oceans is now urging the U.S. Department of the Interior to conduct an interagency investigation into the wreck and to assess whether the waters around the wind turbines are safe for fishermen and mariners. The prevalence of wind turbines in the area has raised questions about navigational hazards, especially after such a grave incident.

Lombardi stated the importance of revisiting the original investigation, highlighting that the unresolved nature of the incident calls for renewed scrutiny. He emphasised the need for an investigation to reach a conclusive outcome that could ensure both accountability and enhanced safety for those navigating the waters.

As developments unfold, Green Oceans remains committed to advocating for the families affected by this tragedy and ensuring that maritime safety is a priority. The organisation hopes that the ongoing discussions and inquiries will ultimately lead to meaningful changes that protect both human lives and the marine environment.

The discovery of the F/V Mistress serves as a poignant reminder of the risks faced by those working at sea and underlines the critical need for safety measures in increasingly congested marine environments. It remains to be seen how authorities will respond to the findings and what implications this may hold for future maritime operations in the region.