Fisherman who died after boat vanished off Scottish coast named as search continues for crewmates

The incident in the Outer Hebrides was first reported to police around 11.35pm on Tuesday.

An HM Coastguard plane, two helicopters, six coastguard teams, two RNLI lifeboats and a local vessel were deployed as part of the urgent search for the other two missing people.

The three men formed the crew of the missing fishing boat Kilda, and are local to the Isle of Lewis.

The boat is believed to have sailed from Brevaig on the west coast of Lewis around 7.30am on Tuesday, before travelling to the Port of Ness area for work.

It was reported overdue after failing to return that evening, with the body of Mr Craigie recovered in the area around 2.45am on Wednesday.

Chief Inspector Ross McCartney, local area commander for the Western Isles, said: “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragic incident.

““The families of all three men involved are being provided with specialist support as our searches continue. We would ask that the privacy of the families of all three men are respected at this difficult time.

“We are working closely with the HM Coastguard and RNLI to search for the vessel and the two missing men.

“We know that the local community will be keen to help in any way they can. However, conditions are very challenging and I would urge people not to put themselves at any risk. Please do not attempt to carry out searches in areas which put you at risk of harm.”

Police Scotland have asked that anyone who may have any information that could assist emergency services to call 101 quoting reference 3575 of October 13.

“A police presence will remain in the Port of Ness area and if you have any concerns or information then I would urge you to speak to one of our officers”, Chief Inspector McCartney added.

Tributes have poured in for Mr Craigie since the news broke, with the 49-year-old remembered as “one of the most respected and experienced men in the job”.

Councillor Kenneth Macleod, convenor of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, said: “This is a very dark day for the community and the Isle of Lewis affected by this tragedy.

“Our thoughts are with the families of the three fishermen involved in the sinking. We can’t even begin to comprehend what the families of the three fishermen are going through.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with them. It is not easy for the teams out searching, with very strong gusts of wind and heavy rain. The emergency services are to be commended for their searches since they received the initial call.”

The Met Office earlier warned of strong winds and adverse weather conditions covering much of western Scotland – as well as the Outer Hebrides – throughout the week.

The region covering the Port of Ness was issued a yellow wind warning around the time the boat vanished, with coastal winds as high as 70mph this week.

The scenic coastal village is home to just 300 residents, well-known for its fishing heritage.