Fatalities of Aqua Amazon explosion rise to seven

After the initial report that four crew were trapped in the stricken ship, another crew member and two external suppliers have been added to the list of victims.

 

So far two have been identified and five more are to be recovered.

 

Another eight crew members are in hospital, three in intensive care.

 

‘We have been in close contact with their families and have been keeping them fully informed of news of their loved ones during this difficult time,’ Francesco Galli Zugaro, founder and ceo of Aqua Expeditions, said in a statement issued Tuesday.

 

‘Many of the crew have been with me from 2007 when we started,’ Galli Zugaro said. ‘I consider them dear friends, not just employees.’

 

He said the source of the fire and explosion is yet to be determined as preliminary investigations are still under way.

 

‘We are supporting all efforts by the authorities and will continue to do so throughout the process,’ he said.

 

‘Our industry partners, guests, families and friends have given me and everyone at Aqua Expeditions the strength and commitment to stay united and face this tragedy together.

 

‘We are overwhelmed by the show of support that is continuing to pour in from all over the world and we will be eternally thankful.’

 

Galli Zugaro said he will keep the industry informed of further developments.