A tragic incident occurred in the port of Panama City, Florida, USA: American pilot Phillip Brady died after falling from a bulk carrier while boarding a pilot boat.
The incident occurred at the entrance to St. Andrews Pass, as the pilot was completing his pilotage of the bulk carrier Lowlands Luck. While crossing the pilot ladder from the vessel to the pilot boat, he fell approximately 4-5 meters into the water.
The vessel’s crew quickly recovered the victim. The U.S. Coast Guard arrived at the scene, and the pilot was subsequently taken to a medical center. Despite medical efforts, he died from his injuries.
The deceased was 46 years old. Phillip Brady was a U.S. citizen, a graduate of the United States Merchant Marine Academy (Class of 2001), and served as a pilot for the Panama City Pilotage Service for approximately six years. Colleagues and members of the maritime community described him as experienced, professional, and respected. He is survived by his fiancée and two young children.
The circumstances of the tragedy are under investigation. Particular attention will be paid to:
— the condition of the pilot ladder,
— weather conditions,
— the interaction between the vessel and the pilot boat,
— compliance with safety procedures during disembarkation.