"It is with deep sadness" - Royal Navy confirm that search for missing Royal Fleet Auxiliary crew member has ended without success
A multi-agency search to find a missing Royal Navy sailor off the northwest coast of Ireland has ended without success.
The Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) Tidesurge crew member, who has not been named, had last been seen at about 10.30pm on Friday night when the boat was near Tory Island, County Donegal.
First Sea Lord Sir Gwyn Jenkins of The Royal Navy confirmed that the search had been ended. He said: “I can confirm that after an extensive search for a missing crew member of Royal Fleet Auxiliary ship’s company, the individual has not been found and the search has been ended.
“At this deeply upsetting time my thoughts are with the family and friends of those involved in this tragedy and I would like to thank all those in the Royal Navy, the RNLI and Irish Coast Guard who took part in the search and rescue with such determined efforts.”
While the serviceperson has not been named, it is understood that the next of kin have been informed.
Defence Secretary John Healey expressed his sadness at the news. He said: “After an extensive search, it is with deep sadness that we confirm the missing crew member of RFA Tidesurge has not been found. My thoughts are with their family during this tragic time, as well as their fellow crew members.
“I am hugely grateful to the Irish authorities, the RNLI, Royal Air Force and Royal Navy who have responded rapidly to this incident and have worked tirelessly on the search.”
A Ministry of Defence spokesman confirmed that an investigation has now begun into the incident. They said: "After an extensive search for a missing crew member of a Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) ship's company, the individual has not been found, and the search has now ended.
"The individual's family have been informed, and an investigation is now under way into the incident. No other individuals have been harmed or reported missing."