A tragic boat accident off the coast of Saint-Tropez caused one death and three serious injuries. The article in brief:
- Collision nocturne : A RIB hits a mooring box 300m from the shore.
- Heavy human toll : 1 mort (the skipper) and 6 injured including 3 serious ones.
- Significant mobilization emergency services: SNSM, nautical brigade, divers, SMUR, helicopter.
- Ongoing investigation to determine the exact circumstances of the accident.
- Reminder ofcrucial importance maritime safety and first aid training.
On the night of Friday October 4 to Saturday October 5, 2024, a tragic boat accident occurred off the coast of Saint-Tropez, on the French Riviera. This maritime tragedy cost the life of one person and seriously injured three others, plunging the famous seaside resort into mourning. The incident took place approximately 300 meters from the shore, around 2 a.m., when a RIB violently collided with a mooring box.
A brutal shock and its devastating consequences
The boat, which was carrying seven people, suffered a impact of extreme violence. The collision caused six passengers to be ejected, throwing them into the dark waters of the Mediterranean. Five of them managed to return to the boat, but the skipper, a 37-year-old man, unfortunately disappeared in the waves.
The search to find the missing navigator mobilized significant emergency resources:
- The National Society for Rescue at Sea (SNSM)
- The nautical brigade
- Specialized divers
- The Mobile Emergency and Resuscitation Service (SMUR)
- A French Navy helicopter
- Firefighters and police on the beach
Unfortunately, mid-morning, the divers made a macabre discovery. The skipper’s lifeless body was located at a depth of 25 meters, around thirty meters from the accident site. This tragedy reminds us of the importance of vigilance in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, where accidents can surprise even the most experienced navigators.
Human toll and ongoing investigation
In addition to the death of the skipper, the accident caused six injured, including three in serious condition. Among the latter, there are two men aged 35 and 52, as well as a 38-year-old woman. The victims were brought ashore around 3:30 a.m. and taken care of by emergency services in Saint-Tropez.
The Draguignan public prosecutor’s office immediately opened an investigation to determine the exact circumstances of this accident. The investigators will have to clarify the following points in particular:
| Key questions | Elements to investigate |
|---|---|
| Boat speed | Was it excessive for night sailing conditions? |
| Skipper Condition | Was he in full possession of his means at the time of the accident? |
| Safety equipment | Was the boat properly equipped (life jackets, navigation lights, etc.)? |
| Visibility | Did weather conditions play a role in the accident? |
As a former volunteer firefighter, I cannot help but emphasize the crucial importance of maritime safety. This drama reminds us that the sea, as beautiful as it is, can be unforgiving. It is essential that every boater is trained in first aid and emergency procedures at sea. Prevention and preparation can make the difference between life and death in such situations.
