HAGATNA, Guam (AP) — An overturned ship located near the U.S. territory of Saipan following a typhoon has been confirmed by the U.S. Coast Guard as the cargo vessel Mariana, which went missing along with its six crew members. The Coast Guard reported that search efforts for the crew are ongoing as they strive to establish their whereabouts.
The Mariana, a 145-foot (44-meter) dry cargo vessel registered in the U.S., reportedly experienced engine failure on Wednesday while a powerful typhoon approached Saipan, bringing with it severe winds and heavy rainfall. After the crew notified the Coast Guard of their engine troubles, a communication protocol was established to maintain contact.
However, the Coast Guard lost contact with the vessel on Thursday. An HC-130 Hercules aircraft was dispatched early that morning for search operations but had to return to Guam due to the hazardous weather conditions. The boat was first spotted on Saturday, and it was confirmed as the Mariana soon after.
The Mariana, a 145-foot (44-meter) dry cargo vessel registered in the U.S., reportedly experienced engine failure on Wednesday while a powerful typhoon approached Saipan, bringing with it severe winds and heavy rainfall. After the crew notified the Coast Guard of their engine troubles, a communication protocol was established to maintain contact.
However, the Coast Guard lost contact with the vessel on Thursday. An HC-130 Hercules aircraft was dispatched early that morning for search operations but had to return to Guam due to the hazardous weather conditions. The boat was first spotted on Saturday, and it was confirmed as the Mariana soon after.
