CANCUN, Mexico – A startling boating incident occurred off Mexico’s coast in the stretch of sea between Cancún and Isla Mujeres, which resulted in the loss of four lives. The maritime tragedy occurred when the boat, known as the “Diosa Del Mar” or “Goddess of the Sea,” capsized on Monday.
The Quintana Roo state’s attorney general, Raciel López Salazar, confirmed that there were 19 people on board the ill-fated vessel, consisting of 17 Mexican tourists, the captain, and one helper.
In a news release, the city council of Isla Mujeres announced that the vessel from Puerto Juárez sank in the bay between the frequently visited holiday destinations of Cancún and Isla Mujeres.
The boat set sail on its fatal voyage Monday night, transporting the tourists from Cancún to Isla Mujeres, which is a small island located approximately 3.5 miles offshore. Subsequent to a meal at a local restaurant, the tourists were en route back to Cancún when disaster struck.
Quintana Roo’s civil protection department coordinated a rescue operation that entailed local agencies and the Mexican navy. They successfully rescued several passengers who were then rushed to the hospital for medical attention.
Four casualties were reported, including two men, one woman, and a boy of 10 years old. Other passengers with serious injuries are receiving hospital treatment, such as life-support measures and mental health support for nervous breakdowns.
It was reported that there were significant wave surges on the night of the incident. Further speculation hinted that the wake created by passing larger vessels could have contributed to the boating accident.
In the wake of this tragic event, the city council of Isla Mujeres stated that the captain of the Diosa Del Mar was turned over to the pertinent authorities to establish culpability for the accident. Salazar signaled the captain’s potential responsibility during a media briefing.