One Dead and Four Missing After Tugboat Capsizes in Midia Port
Tragedy struck on March 18, 2026, when the tugboat ‘Astana’ capsized in Midia Port, resulting in one confirmed death and four individuals reported missing. The incident occurred at 8:40 a.m. while the ‘Astana’ was assisting the Marshall Islands-flagged tanker ‘Amades’ in mooring at the Monbuoy terminal, located approximately eight kilometers from the port. The quick response from various emergency services has initiated a search and rescue operation, but concerns remain for the missing crew members.
Emergency Response and Ongoing Search Operations
In response to the accident, multiple emergency teams were deployed, including three Saj B crew members, a mobile intensive care unit, helicopter support, and a fire engine. Two boats from the ARVOM organization, equipped with four divers, were engaged in search and rescue missions offshore. Additionally, another ARSVOM boat arrived with ten divers, alongside four military personnel from the ISU and six utility divers from ARSVOM. These teams collaborated with divers from the Midia Marine Terminal to conduct thorough search operations in the area.
During the rescue efforts, one individual was successfully retrieved from the water by the crew of the tugboat ‘București’. Despite immediate medical assistance and resuscitation attempts at the dock, this person was sadly declared deceased. The fate of four additional crew members remains uncertain, as search operations continue in hopes of locating them. According to initial reports, the ‘Astana’ experienced engine failure before capsizing to starboard, turning upside down and sinking stern-first. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, with oversight from the Prosecutor’s Office.
Meanwhile, unloading operations for the tanker at the terminal have been halted, ensuring no further risk to personnel or vessels in the area. The ISU ‘Dobrogea’ Constanța and ARSVOM are coordinating with the owner company to manage the situation effectively.
Investigation Underway
As the search for the missing crew members continues, authorities are focused on understanding the factors that led to the capsizing of the ‘Astana’. Investigators from the Prosecutor’s Office will look into the incident thoroughly to determine the cause of the engine failure and the subsequent capsizing. The safety of maritime operations in the Midia area is a priority, and the incident has raised concerns regarding the protocols in place for tugboat operations.
