The Uruguayan and Brazilian navies have launched a search operation for a crew member who went overboard from the MSC Cruises ship MSC Poesia. Authorities said that the crew member disappeared on Friday, shortly after the cruise ship departed the port of Montevideo.
The disappearance was first noticed when the crew member failed to report for duty. After reviewing video surveillance footage, ship officers identified the time and place the crew member went overboard.
According to the Uruguay authorities, the MSC Poesia departed Montevideo at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, en route to the Brazilian resort city of Camboriú, where it was scheduled to arrive on February 23. The missing crew member was identified as 32-year-old Filipino national Bueno Jeric, who was last seen on deck 7 of the cruise ship. The vessel first became aware of his absence when it was approximately 13 miles from Brazilian waters.
In response, the cruise ship requested assistance from the Uruguayan Navy, which immediately launched a search and rescue operation. The effort included a patrol boat and a small plane, with a helicopter also placed on standby for potential rescue operations. Additionally, all ships in the surrounding area were alerted to be on the lookout.
On Sunday, the Uruguayan Navy reported that MSC Poesia had determined the precise moment when the crew member fell overboard. Footage from a surveillance camera showed him standing on deck 7, port side forward, near the life raft station. Authorites said that a camera on the bridge wing recorded movement in the water.
With the search area shifting into Brazilian jurisdiction, the Brazilian maritime authority will now take the lead in the ongoing operation. However, Uruguayan authorities have been requested to continue efforts in their territorial waters.
Investigation is currently underway to determine the circumstances surrounding Jeric's disappearance, including whether it was an accident or an intentional act. All statements, video footage, and other evidence have been secured on board and will be handed over to local authorities as part of the investigation.
The search for the missing crew member continues as officials work against time in hopes of a successful rescue.
