Fisherman Dies Following Serious Incident at Sea off Kerry Coast
A fisherman has died following a serious incident at sea off the coast of County Kerry, prompting a large-scale emergency response involving the Irish Coast Guard and international maritime authorities.
The incident occurred at approximately 9am on Thursday morning, when a fishing vessel registered in Spain encountered difficulties in challenging sea conditions, with swells reported to be between five and six metres. Spanish maritime authorities alerted Ireland’s Marine Rescue Co-ordination Centre (MRCC) Valentia, triggering an immediate rescue operation.
According to the Coast Guard, a rope on board the vessel is believed to have snapped, seriously injuring two crew members. One fisherman was airlifted by Rescue Helicopter 118 to Cork University Hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment. The second man was initially reported to be alive but later died on board the vessel before he could be transferred ashore.
Due to the severity of the sea conditions, the trawler was required to move to calmer waters before recovery operations could safely proceed. Rescue Helicopters 115 from Shannon and 118 from Waterford, along with a Coast Guard fixed-wing aircraft, were deployed during the operation, with both helicopters required to refuel mid-mission.
Arrangements are now being made to transfer the deceased fisherman’s body to the nearest port. The man’s identity has not yet been formally released, pending notification of next of kin.
The incident has renewed concerns about safety in the fishing sector, particularly during periods of volatile winter weather. Authorities have confirmed that the Marine Casualty Investigation Board is expected to be notified, and an examination of the circumstances surrounding the incident is likely to follow.
The fishing community across Ireland has expressed shock and sympathy as details continue to emerge.
Aaron Joyce
Newswire, L.T.T Media
Newsdesk
15 January 2026
Rescue Helicopter Ireland