A workplace accident on the Blue Star Chios ferry claimed the life of a 20-year-old crew member, reportedly a trainee, on Wednesday morning. The vessel was en route from Rhodes to Piraeus when the incident occurred.
According to the Hellenic Coast Guard, the young seaman, employed as an engine room cleaner, became trapped in a watertight sliding door in the ferry’s lower garage. He was found unconscious by colleagues, who immediately attempted to free him and provide first aid.
Upon arrival at Piraeus port at 9:15 a.m., an ambulance transferred the victim to the nearby Tzaneio Hospital, where physicians confirmed his death. The Coast Guard has launched a preliminary investigation to determine the exact circumstances of the accident, and a public prosecutor has been informed.
Blue Star Ferries confirmed the fatal incident in a statement, expressing shock and condolences to the family of the deceased. The company noted that it is cooperating fully with authorities as investigations continue.
Coast guard officers later arrested the vessel’s master and first engineer. Both were charged with negligent homicide and led before a relevant prosecutor.
In response to the fatal accident, the Panhellenic Union of Merchant Marine Engineers (PEMEN) and the Panhellenic Union of Engine Crew E.N. “Stefenson” declared a 24-hour strike on the Blue Star Chios, effective from 11:00 a.m. Wednesday until 11:00 a.m. Thursday. The unions stressed that the ferry will not depart Piraeus until the incident is thoroughly investigated.
