A MAN died after an explosion tore through a vessel near Spanish Cay on Saturday morning, forcing seven men into the water as they tried to stay afloat.
Police said the men, including the captain, were travelling to Spanish Cay on a teal-and-white 23-foot Angler vessel to work on a construction project when the boat developed mechanical problems shortly after 6am.
Initial investigations found that one of the occupants checked the bilge pump and discovered water leaking from it. While trying to address the problem, he allegedly placed a wire on the engine’s battery, causing an explosion.
All seven men entered the water after the blast and worked together to remain afloat. After some time, the man who had been trying to repair the vessel reportedly told the others he could no longer hold on.
He released his grip and was last seen going under the water before disappearing from view, police said.
Six of the men were rescued by nearby private citizens.
The unresponsive man was later recovered by family members and taken to the Government Dock in Mount Hope.
A local physician pronounced him dead at the Marsh Harbour Health Centre around 12.46pm.
Police said officers from the Coopers Town Police Station received information about the explosion shortly before 8am and were dispatched to investigate.
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