Massachusetts Fishing Tragedy Deepens as TV Star Skipper’s Final Call Emerges Hours Before Vessel Sank With Entire Crew
MASSACHUSETTS — New details have emerged in the devastating loss of a commercial fishing vessel off the Massachusetts coast, where a television-featured fisherman and his entire crew are now presumed dead after their boat capsized in dangerously cold waters.
According to reports, the skipper of the fishing vessel Lily Jean made a concerning phone call to a close friend just hours before the tragedy unfolded, raising new questions about what may have been happening aboard the boat before it went down.
Vessel Vanishes Off Massachusetts Coast
The 72-foot fishing vessel Lily Jean disappeared after capsizing in the Atlantic Ocean off Massachusetts. The boat was operating in bone-chilling sea temperatures of approximately 12 degrees, conditions that significantly reduce survival time in the water.
Seven people were aboard the vessel, including the skipper and six crew members. All are now presumed dead, according to reports tied to the incident.
Skipper Identified as TV-Featured Fisherman
The skipper has been identified as Gus Sanfilippo, a fisherman known for his appearances connected to television fishing programming. Sanfilippo and his crew were operating the Lily Jean when the vessel encountered trouble and ultimately capsized. No survivors have been reported, and recovery efforts have since transitioned into a fatality response.
Final Phone Call Raises New Questions
Investigators and reporters say Sanfilippo placed a phone call to a friend just hours before the vessel went down, described as concerning in tone. While specific details of the conversation have not been publicly disclosed, the timing of the call has drawn attention as authorities continue to piece together the final hours of the crew.
Officials have not confirmed whether the call referenced mechanical issues, weather concerns, or other problems onboard.
Cold Water Conditions Proved Deadly
At the time of the incident, sea temperatures were around 12 degrees, a factor maritime experts say drastically limits survival even for experienced fishermen wearing protective gear. In such conditions, hypothermia can set in within minutes. The vessel’s sudden capsizing left little chance for escape or rescue.
Community Mourns Loss of Crew
The loss of the Lily Jean has sent shockwaves through fishing communities along the Massachusetts coast. Friends, family members, and fellow fishermen have begun leaving memorials and tributes honoring the crew and their years of work at sea.
Authorities continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the sinking, though officials have indicated that recovery operations remain difficult due to conditions and location.
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