Cargo Ship That Sank Was Carrying Supplies for Haiti

On Wednesday, October 7 the Coast Guard responded to a mayday call from the MYSTIC a 206 ft. cargo ship.

The ship was carrying medical supplies from Miami to Haiti when she struck a submerged object. Crew onboard reports that the vessel began taking on water and their efforts to pump the water out were not enough to keep up with the flow. The Coast Guard cutter, Nantucket, arrived on scene but harsh conditions prevented the Coast Guard from nearing the ship. After more than two hours the Mystic was able to weigh anchor and shift to the western side of the cay, where seas were calmer.

The Coast Guard reports that in the evening the flow rate onboard the Mystic appeared under control, staying close by the Nantucket continued to maintain hourly communications with the ship.

Around 3 a.m., crew onboard the Mystic reported that the ship was in danger of capsizing and the crew of ten and one dog abandoned ship into two life rafts.

A Coast Guard helicopter, waiting in Marathon arrived on scene with the Nantucket who launched her small boat and rescued 4 of the 10, while the helicopter hoisted up the remaining 6 and the dog.

The MV Mystic capsized and broke up Thursday near Damas Cay in the Cay Sal Bank, Bahamas. It is unknown if any of the $20,000 worth of medical supplies can be salvaged.

U.S. Coast Guard photo By Petty Officer 3rd Class Steve Hirsch