Urgent Search for Missing UK Navy Crew Member Off Irish Coast

A significant multi-agency search operation is currently underway for a missing crew member of the UK Navy off the north-west coast of Ireland. The individual was last seen on Friday, October 20, 2023, at approximately 22:30. A distress call was issued to the Irish Coast Guard early on Saturday, October 21, 2023, prompting an extensive search effort in the surrounding waters.

According to Ireland’s Department of Transport, the Irish Coast Guard’s Marine Rescue Coordination Centre in Malin Head received the distress alert from a UK naval support vessel just before 09:00 on Saturday. The alert detailed a missing crew member last seen at around 22:30 the previous evening. At the time the alarm was raised, the vessel was located north of Tory Island.

Coordinated Search Efforts

The search for the missing crew member is being coordinated by the Malin Head Coast Guard. Efforts are focused on the waters between Tory Island, County Donegal, and Eagle Island, County Mayo. Various agencies are participating in the operation, including the Irish Coast Guard, the Irish Air Corps, and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), along with additional naval vessels.

Airborne assets deployed for the search include the Coast Guard’s fixed-wing aircraft, Rescue 120F, operating from Shannon Airport, and the Coast Guard helicopter Rescue 118 from Sligo. The Irish Air Corps is also contributing with its aircraft, CASA 284. On the water, the UK naval support vessel is collaborating with three RNLI all-weather lifeboats from Ballyglass, Arranmore Island, and Lough Swilly.

Community Involvement and Ongoing Efforts

The Irish Coast Guard has stated that “other vessels of opportunity” are also participating in the search, showcasing the community’s commitment to locating the missing individual. The operation underscores the collaborative nature of search and rescue efforts in the region, bringing together multiple agencies and local resources.

As the search continues, officials are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward. The determination to locate the missing crew member remains strong, reflecting the profound impact such incidents have on naval communities and families. The ongoing efforts highlight the importance of safety and vigilance in maritime operations.

Authorities are expected to provide updates as the situation develops. The search operation remains a priority for all agencies involved, demonstrating a unified response to this urgent maritime emergency.