The tragic news that a 20-year-old seaman, a crew member of the passenger-car ferry Blue Star Chios, was crushed by a watertight sliding door in the ship’s ground-level garage this morning, before its scheduled departure from Rhodes to Piraeus, has shaken the maritime community, which now mourns the young man’s loss.

According to reports, the 20-year-old cadet seaman drew his last breath on board the ship just 15 days after beginning his mandatory training voyage. Full of dreams and hopes for a career in shipping, he never had the chance to see his vision realized.

The young man was participating in his required training voyage as part of his studies at a maritime academy.

According to information, the unfortunate cadet was on his way to the engine room when the door apparently opened, he entered, but then became trapped as it closed on him, fatally injuring him.

Initial assessments suggest that part of his clothing may have been caught in the door, preventing him from freeing himself before it shut.

Immediately upon the vessel’s arrival in Piraeus, an EKAB ambulance was called, which transported the injured man to hospital. Despite doctors’ efforts, his life could not be saved.

The grief is unbearable for his family, who cannot comprehend how their son — who only weeks ago set off full of dreams — has now returned lifeless. His colleagues, deeply shaken by the tragic incident, describe the young cadet as dedicated and eager to learn his trade.

The Hellenic Coast Guard is conducting a preliminary investigation into the exact circumstances of the accident, while the competent prosecutor has also been informed.