Fisherman Dead, Two Missing After Boat Disappears Off Western Isles
Extensive multi-agency search continues for Norman Murray and Murdo Morrison after the Kilda went missing near Port of Ness.
Callum Smith
A fisherman was found dead after his boat disappeared off the Western Isles on Tuesday.
Police Scotland received notification of the disappearance Tuesday night. All three men are local to the Isle of Lewis.
The alarm sounded at 11:35 pm Tuesday after the boat failed to return to harbour. The RNLI launched its Lochinver lifeboat that same night.
HM Coastguard confirmed an aircraft, two helicopters, six rescue teams, and a local vessel joined the search. Operations on Wednesday faced gales of 70mph and 10ft waves.
Challenging weather conditions continue to hamper ongoing efforts. Ross McCartney stated, "Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragic incident. The families of all three men involved are being provided with specialist support as our searches continue. We would ask that the privacy of the families of all three men are respected at this difficult time. We are working closely with the HM Coastguard and RNLI to search for the vessel and the two missing men."
Na h-Eileanan an Iar MP Torcuil Crichton raised the incident in the House of Commons on Thursday. The Marine Accident Investigation Branch dispatched a team to investigate the loss of the FV Kilda.
We know that the local community will be keen to help in any way they can. However, conditions are very challenging and I would urge people not to put themselves at any risk.
McCartney also urged the community to exercise caution. "We know that the local community will be keen to help in any way they can. However, conditions are very challenging and I would urge people not to put themselves at any risk," he said.
He added, "Please do not attempt to carry out searches in areas which put you at risk of harm. Instead, if you believe you may have any information which could assist emergency services, then please call 101 quoting reference 3575 of 13 October. A police presence will remain in the Port of Ness area and if you have any concerns or information then I would urge you to speak to one of our officers."