PANAMA CITY, PANAMA – The Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) confirmed on Saturday, October 18, 2025, that it is investigating the separate deaths of two crew members. One fatality occurred on a Panamanian-flagged coastal vessel and the other on a UK-registered international merchant ship. The incidents, both attended to by authorities on Friday, October 17, are under formal investigation by the AMP’s Department of Maritime Accident Investigation and the Panamanian Public Ministry.
The AMP issued an official statement expressing its profound regret over the deaths and extending sincere condolences to the families and colleagues of the deceased seafarers. The authority reiterated its commitment to maritime safety, the welfare of crew members, and transparency in investigating incidents aboard vessels under its jurisdiction. The investigations will proceed in accordance with applicable international conventions.
Details of the Incident on the Panamanian Fishing Vessel
According to the AMP’s detailed report, the first incident involved the death of a 68-year-old Panamanian national, Abdiel Delgado. Delgado, who held a first-class Fishing Master license, died on October 17 aboard the Panamanian-flagged fishing vessel “Monserrat.” The vessel was navigating off the coast of Chame Bay at the time of the incident.
Preliminary findings from the investigation suggest the death is associated with natural causes, specifically a suspected cardiac arrest. The “Monserrat” later docked at the Puerto Internacional de Vacamonte, where officials from the Public Ministry conducted a formal examination and retrieval of the body as part of the standard investigative procedure.
Fatal Incident Aboard UK-Flagged Oil Tanker
The second, earlier incident resulted in the death of an Indian national, Second Engineer Yashvendra Nath Sharma. Sharma died on October 7, 2025, while performing his duties aboard the UK-registered oil tanker “BW TUCANA.” The vessel was in international waters en route to Panama at the time.
The “BW TUCANA” arrived at the Port of Balboa on Friday, October 17. Upon its arrival, competent Panamanian authorities, including the DGMM and the Public Ministry, immediately commenced their investigative work. Preliminary reports also indicate that Sharma’s death is presumed to be due to cardiac failure. The investigation into the precise circumstances surrounding his death is ongoing.
Next Steps and International Coordination
The AMP’s Department of Maritime Accident Investigation will compile a full report on both incidents. These findings will determine the official causes of death and any potential safety recommendations for the vessels involved. The authority’s commitment to international protocols ensures the process will be thorough and transparent.
For the family of Yashvendra Nath Sharma, the conclusion of the local investigation will trigger a coordinated repatriation effort. The Embassy of India in Panamá is expected to work alongside the shipping company to facilitate the return of his remains to his country of origin, a standard procedure in such international maritime incidents.
These events underscore the inherent risks faced by the global maritime workforce. The Panama Maritime Authority, as a leading flag state administration, plays a critical role in enforcing safety standards and investigating incidents to protect the lives of those at sea. The outcomes of these investigations are awaited by the international shipping community and the nacional maritime sector as part of ongoing efforts to improve safety.