The U.S. Coast Guard is urgently searching Massachusetts waters for survivors after a commercial fishing vessel carrying seven people, including a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) observer, sank on Friday approximately 25 miles off the coast of Cape Ann.

Coast Guard watchstanders received an emergency position indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) alert at about 6:50 a.m. local time, registered to the 72-foot commercial fishing vessel Lily Jean. After attempts to contact the boat failed, the Coast Guard issued an urgent marine information broadcast (UMIB).

Responding to the distress signal, the USCG Northeast District deployed an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew from Air Station Cape Cod and a small boat crew from Station Gloucester to search the area. Additionally, the Coast Guard Cutter Thunder Bay was diverted to assist in the search efforts.

Rescue crews discovered debris near the location where the EPIRB was activated, along with a body and an unoccupied life raft. The Coast Guard confirmed that search and rescue operations will continue.

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey expressed her sorrow over the tragedy and affirmed the state’s full support. In a statement, she said, “I’m heartbroken over the devastating news out of Gloucester about the sinking of the Lily Jean and have offered our full support to Mayor Lundberg, Harbormaster Lucido, and the Coast Guard. I am praying for the crew, and my heart goes out to their loved ones and all Gloucester fishing families during this awful time.”

Governor Healey emphasized the importance of fishermen and fishing vessels to the history, economy, and culture of Gloucester and Cape Ann, noting that this tragedy is deeply felt across the state.

The boat’s captain, Gus Sanfilippo, and his crew were previously featured in a 2012 episode of the History Channel show *Nor’Easter Men*, which highlighted a fishing expedition in hazardous weather conditions. Sanfilippo, a fifth-generation commercial fisherman, specialized in haddock, lobster, and flounder fishing.

Senator Bruce Tarr, R-Gloucester, who is a friend of the missing captain, also commented on the situation as search efforts continue.

The Coast Guard and local authorities remain committed to locating survivors and providing support to the families affected by this tragic incident.
https://www.foxnews.com/us/coast-guard-searching-survivors-after-commercial-fishing-boat-sinks-off-massachusetts-1-body-recovered