WILLEMSTAD – A tragic boating accident near the entrance of Fuik Bay on August 1 claimed the life of former CITRO Curaçao rescue volunteer and retired captain Krik Parrel.
According to CITRO Curaçao, the organization’s coordinator received a report that a Curaçao fishing boat had become stranded on rocks and was sinking near the entrance of Fuik Bay. The owner, who was on board with his wife, entered the water in an attempt to push the vessel away from the rocks and prevent further damage.
During the attempt, the man became trapped underneath the sinking boat, disappeared underwater and died.
CITRO quickly learned that the victim was a former rescue captain of the organization and a well-known friend to many within the CITRO community.
With assistance from two divers from Sandals Diving, one of whom is also a CITRO captain, the CR1 rescue crew recovered the victim and transported him to the CITRO boathouse.
The victim’s wife was rescued by another fishing boat and transported by jet ski to safety before being taken to the CITRO facility, where she awaited the arrival of authorities.
CITRO stated that all members involved in the recovery operation received immediate victim support to help them process the traumatic incident.
The rescue organization expressed its condolences to the family and friends of Krik Parrel.
“From CITRO, we wish the family and all friends of Krik Parrel much strength during this difficult time. Krik, fair winds,” the organization said.