JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Testimony from the former chief mate of El Faro and third-party boiler inspector is expected at U.S. Coast Guard hearing on the sinking of El Faro.
The cargo ship, El Faro, sank near the Bahamas in October during Hurricane Joaquin. The 33 crew members on board are presumed dead.
Jamie Torres, who was another former chief mate of El Faro, USCG Shiprider Lt. Kimberly Beisner and Luke Laasko, who is one of the third-party boiler inspectors, are expected to give testimony during Thursday’s hearing.
Testimony Thursday included the complexities of achieving and maintaining a stable ship.
Former crew members of El Faro said the ship was old and rusty. The Coast Guard Marine Board showed photos of the rusted parts areas of El Faro’s sister ship El Yunque. Torres said the rust wasn’t anything to cause concern.
“This looks like surface rust, and doesn't think there's anything wrong with it,” Torres said.
Torres said he could not make the determination if the conditions on the El Faro were similar to the El Yunque.
The marine board said Thursday will be a long day, and Friday was reserved as an extra day to be used for questioning.
Action News Jax reporter Lorena Inclan is in the hearing. Follow her on Twitter @LorenaANjax for updates.
Cox Media Group
