19 Fisherman Rescued, 20 Still Missing After Boat Capsizes

April 26, 2007: SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico
Only 19 of 39 fishermen have been rescued after the capsizing of their vessel, 20 nautical miles north of Monti Cristi, Dominican Republic.

On Tuesday, April 24th, a Good Samaritan vessel rescued two fishermen from the water. The fishermen reported that their vessel, whith 39 passengers on board, had originated from Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic the previous evening, headed for Silver Bank – about 60 nautical miles north, when it capsized.

The U.S. Coast Guard and the Dominican Republic navy were called in to assist with the rescues, and a total of 19 fisherman were rescued. None of the rescued were wearing lifejackets or flotation devices.

Source: U.S. Coast Guard Press Release