According to the local media reports, at least ten people have been killed, 17 injured while three are still missing after yesterday’s accident at the Alaybey Naval Shipyard in İzmir, Turkey.
The accident happened while the shipyard was attempting to launch the Turkish Naval Forces (TDK) tugboat, the TCG Degrmendere into the waters of the Aegean Sea on Monday, following its repairs. During the launch, the boat started taking on water after it listed and eventually tilted fully onto one side.
Six of the wounded, including civilians who were on the tugboat, were taken to Karşıyaka State Hospital. Three were transported to Ege University Hospital for treatment, they subsequently died. Six people who suffered light injuries have since been discharged from the hospital, reports SeaNews.
The official report on the accident, issued by the Turkish General Staff, says that the reason of the accident is yet unknown and that all 17 injured are in good health.
Search and rescue teams are on the scene working to find the missing marine and two ship workers.
[mappress] SBT Staff, December 24, 2013; Image flickr