Rescue workers have found the body of Spanish football coach Fernando Martin Carreras, who had been missing since a tourist boat sank in rough seas off eastern Indonesia more than a week ago.
Fathur Rahman, head of the local search and rescue agency, said a body was found on Sunday floating in waters near Rinca island, around 2km from the site of the accident on Dec 26th.
‘Following an identification process, authorities have confirmed the victim’s identity, 44-year-old Fernando Martin Carreras,’ he confirmed.
Carreras, a former footballer, was the coach of the reserve women’s team of the Spanish club Valencia, according to an earlier statement from Real Madrid.
His wife and one of their daughters were among seven people rescued after the vessel went down in the Padar Island Strait, near the popular destination of Labuan Bajo. Four crew members and a tour guide were also rescued.
Authorities found the body of another daughter last Monday, leaving two people still missing – both boys from the same family.
‘Rescuers continue their search, aided by divers and sonar systems,’ said Fathur Rahman.
Local police have launched an investigation into the sinking, state news agency Antara reported on Thursday, with a police spokesman saying legal action would be taken if authorities can find evidence of negligence.
Fernando Martin Carreras’ (pictured), body was found today floating in waters near Rinca island, around 2km from the site of the accident on Dec 26th
Following an identification process, authorities have confirmed the victim’s identity, 44-year-old Fernando Martin Carreras (pictured with his son who is also feared to have drowned)
Rescue workers say they will continue their search until Wednesday for the two missing boys
Maritime accidents occur regularly in Indonesia, a Southeast Asian archipelago of around 17,000 islands, often due to lax safety standards or bad weather.
Valencia Football Club paid tribute to the manager in a statement on social media as the news broke last month.
It said: ‘Valencia CF is deeply saddened by the death of Fernando Martin, coach of Valencia CF Women’s B team, and three of his children in a tragic boating accident in Indonesia, as confirmed by local authorities.
‘At this difficult time for everyone, the club would like to send our support and condolences to the families, friends and colleagues at Valencia CF, Valencia CF Women’s team and VCF Academy.’
Real Madrid also paid tribute to the manager.
The Spanish football club said in a statement: ‘Real Madrid CF, its president and Board of Directors are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Fernando Martín, Valencia CF Women’s B coach, and three of his children, in the tragic boat accident in Indonesia.’
‘Real Madrid wishes to express its horror, and extends its condolences and deepest affection to his wife, Andrea, and his daughter, Mar, at this incredibly difficult time.’
‘Likewise, we send our condolences to all of his family and loved ones, and the whole Valencia family.’
‘Fernando Martín has passed away at 44 years of age, alongside his children, aged 12, 10 and 9. May they rest in peace.’
Rescue workers say they will continue their search until Wednesday for the two missing boys.