Fishing Vessel Sinking Under Investigation

The U.S. Coast Guard informs it is investigating the sinking of the fishing vessel Robert C that occurred near Martha's Vineyard, Mass., Monday.

The sole person aboard fishing vessel Robert C radioed Coast Guard Sector Southeastern New England's Command Center at 12:08 p.m Monday, stating the vessel was taking on water 1.5 miles northwest of Menemsha following a collision with another the fishing vessel, Pedlar, both home-ported in Fairhaven. 

Coast Guard Station Menemsha immediately issued a Urgent Marine Information Broadcast and launched a 47-foot Motor Life Boat. 

While the boat crew was in route, the fishing vessel Robert C sank. Fishing vessel Shearwater, home-ported in New Bedford Harbor, recovered the person in the water and delivered the person to Menemsha Harbor. The individual was evaluated by local EMS and no injuries were reported. 

The Coast Guard is currently working with Mass. State agencies and the vessel owner to ensure that the wreck, which will not be salvaged, is clearly marked. Divers finished plugging the vessel vents Thursday to avoid future fuel discharges of diesel.

The cause of this sinking is currently being investigated.