Foul Play Suspected Aboard Coal Ship, 2 Deaths in 2 Weeks

A second crewman has died within two weeks of the first death aboard Panama-registered coal ship, the Sage Sagittarius.

The 55-year-old chief engineer passed away while the vessel was docked at Newcastle Port in New South Wales. Despite efforts made by paramedics, the crewmember lost his life after suffering from cardiac arrest. Local reports claim he was also injured prior to this incident.

The Australian Federal Police have already launched an investigation into the ship after the first crewmember disappeared. The Maritime Union of Australia suggested the first man met his death through foul play after he complained about poor pay and conditions on the ship.

Read more about the first death: Crewman Lost At Sea, Feared Murdered

The New South Wales Police Force released the following statement:

An investigation is underway into the circumstances surrounding the death of a crew-member on a ship which docked in Newcastle earlier today.

About 8.15am (Friday 14 September 2012), personnel onboard the bulk cargo ship contacted ‘000’ to advise a 55-year-old man had suffered cardiac arrest.

Paramedics attended a dock at Carrington and boarded the vessel, locating the male and treating the man, however he was later pronounced deceased.

Officers attached to Newcastle Local Area Command attended and a crime scene was established.

An investigation is underway and the ship’s crew-members are being interviewed by officers attached to Marine Area Command with assistance from Newcastle City.

A report will be prepared for the Coroner into the circumstances surrounding the man’s death.