Injured Maritime Worker Medevaced to Honolulu
A 41-year-old crew member suffering from a fractured arm and possible head injury was successfully medevaced from a cargo ship located approximately 1,000 miles northeast of Oahu on July 19th, 2025. The bold rescue, coordinated by the Joint Rescue Coordination Center (JRCC) Honolulu, brought the injured mariner to safety after a multi-day transit.
The incident began around 3:30 p.m. Thursday, July 17th when JRCC Honolulu watchstanders received a call from Eastaway Ship Management. It was reported that a crew member aboard their 892-foot, Singapore-flagged cargo ship, the EA CHARA, had sustained a significant injury far out in the Pacific.
Following a consultation with a duty flight surgeon, who strongly recommended a medical evacuation, JRCC Honolulu established communication with the EA CHARA. This allowed them to monitor the patient’s condition as the cargo ship altered course and headed towards Oahu.
The critical phase of the operation unfolded at 7:20 p.m. on Saturday July 19th, 2025. An MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew from U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Barbers Point executed a successful hoist, safely pulling the injured man from the deck of the EA CHARA. He was then transported to Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay.
Upon arrival, Honolulu Fire Department emergency medical services were standing by and transferred the patient to Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu for urgent medical attention and further care.
Head injuries and broken bones while working at sea require immediate and proper medical care, followed by diligent reporting, documentation, and the pursuit of legal rights under maritime law, including potential claims under the Jones Act and the right to maintenance and cure. Consult with a maritime attorney familiar with Jones Act claims to understand your legal options and seek compensation.