Ferry Captain on Leave After Sinking Sailboat

The captain and second mate of the Hyak ferry that sank a sailboat on the Salish Sea on September 13 are officially on leave as the investigation continues. Jack Gray was riding in his sailboat when the 382-foot Hyak ferry crashed into and sank his boat. Both Gray and his dog were stuck at sea after the accident.

A passing recreational boater rescued Gray and his dog from the water. The 27-foot sailboat sank to the bottom of the sea. Gray was taken to Peace Island Hospital with hypothermia and chest pains.

Witnesses to the collision told reporters that it was highly unlikely the captain of the ferry did not see the sailboat due to the fact it was in the middle of the shipping lane. Gray claims to be an expert sailor and his brother, Jerry Gray, said he “did nothing wrong” and is “always extremely safe,” according to KIRO 7.

The captain and second mate of the Hyak are currently on paid leave as an investigation into the collision continues. The Washington State Ferries department is assessing weather conditions, vessel damage and crew information for the investigation.  The investigators will examine the course of both vessels prior to the collision and particularly, what steps were taken by the helmsman to avoid the collision.

If the investigation shows the ferry  is at fault for the collision and that measures could have been taken by the ferry to avoid it,  the victim may be able to seek compensation for damages for pain and suffering, mental anguish, lost wages and medical bills. The maritime law attorneys at Latti & Anderson LLP have more than 50 years of experience litigating maritime cases and understand the risk ferry workers and passengers face on the water. We can help those who have suffered serious injuries on board these vessels.

Contact our nationwide ferry accident attorneys today for a free consultation at (800) 392-6072.

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