The U.S. Coast Guard, alongside a growing multinational task force, is urgently searching the western Pacific after the U.S.-flagged cargo vessel Mariana was found capsized northeast of Saipan, with all six crew members unaccounted for. On Saturday evening, search aircraft reported debris fields approximately 95 nautical miles from the vessel, which included a partially inflated life raft. The vessel had drifted considerably, complicating the search in open waters.
The crisis began Wednesday when the Mariana reported engine failure about 125 nautical miles north-northwest of Saipan. The Coast Guard maintained communication through the vessel’s manager until it was lost later that day. An HC-130 Hercules located the overturned ship Friday, about 34 nautical miles northeast of Pagan, prompting a dramatic expansion of the search area to over 75,000 square nautical miles, larger than Nebraska.
As of Sunday evening, specialized rescue teams joined the effort, including an HC-130 from the U.S. Air Force, which deployed divers and small boats to confirm the vessel’s identity. Divers are now examining the hull for potential entry points and may utilize remotely operated vehicles to search the interior for survivors.
The coordinated international operation includes assets from various Pacific nations and organizations, yet no sign of the missing mariners has been found. Initially adverse weather conditions hindered progress, but search teams are now working tirelessly amidst shifting currents. Officials are urging anyone with information to assist in the search to contact authorities, as efforts continue to balance surface searches with underwater investigations.
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