On the morning of April 21, 2024, the 23-foot fishing vessel Miss Jenny capsized near Molly Ann Cove, N.L., claiming the lives of two crewmembers.
At approximately 11 a.m. on the day of the incident, the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) received a report of people in the water near Molly Ann Cove. In response, the CCG sent out a mayday relay to vessels in the area, as well as tasking the CCGS Cape Edenshaw out of Lark Harbour, N.L.
A Cormorant helicopter out of Gander, N.L. was also sent by the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) in Halifax.
Upon arriving at the scene, the CCGS Cape Edenshaw was able to deploy a fast rescue craft to recover the bodies of the two deceased crewmembers, identified as 44-year-old Trevor Childs and his nephew, 26-year-old Nicholas Skinner.
The four remaining crewmembers of the Miss Jenny were stranded on the shore. Due to the shore and sea conditions, the fast rescue craft was unable to recover them. The cormorant helicopter, however, was able to rescue the four individuals and transport them to Lark Harbour.
Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, extended his sympathies in the wake of the accident.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the two crew members from Lark Harbour who were taken from us just days ago while fishing for lobster. Our thoughts are with the community and all those affected during this difficult time. The loss of these two valued members of the community will deeply impact the lives of families, friends and everyone with a connection to the fishing sector in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
“Our thoughts are also with the survivors. This terrible disaster reminds us that though fishing is an honourable occupation, those who make their living on the ocean face significant risks every single time they head out to the fishing grounds — and it reminds us how valuable the industry is in our province,” said Furey.
“Newfoundland and Labrador has experienced great loss on the ocean, and this tragedy will leave an indelible mark on the province’s historical fishing industry. We are confident our tight-knit fishing community will continue to provide support and comfort for friends and family as they mourn the loss of their dear friends and loved ones.”
The investigation into the accident is ongoing.
