Maritime Accident News

Maritime Diver Loses His Life in Underwater Accident in Gulf

A maritime diver lost his life while performing maintenance on an oil rig located in the Gulf of Mexico. The diving accident, which is unrelated to the oil rig Deepwater Horizon explosion that killed 11 maritime workers, took place at approximately 11:30 AM on Friday morning, July 2, 2010.

According to the victim’s employer, Chicago-based Veolia Environmental Services North America, the diver was working from one of their vessels, the Normand Clipper, at a depth of approximately 250 feet when an apparent underwater explosion occurred. The company was performing maintenance on a Houston-based Chevron U.S.A. oil rig that had been damaged by a hurricane in recent years.

Officials from Veolia Environmental Services North America reported that rescue teams were able to recover the diver’s body. Unfortunately, paramedics were unable to resuscitate the diver. The diver’s identity was not immediately made known. It was unclear if anyone else was injured in the accident.

The fatal maritime accident is still under investigation by local authorities. There was no information provided as to what possibly caused the explosion.

This is an unfortunate accident and our thoughts and condolences go out to the victim’s family and friends during this difficult time.

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