Valencia CF Coach and Three Children Die in Boat Accident

JAKARTA, Indonesia — Valencia CF coach Fernando Martin, 44, and three of his children died after a boat carrying their family capsized in Indonesian waters on Friday evening. The incident occurred while they were traveling from Komodo Island to Padar Island, popular spots within Komodo National Park.

According to Fathur Rahman, head of the Maumere Search and Rescue Office, the boat was carrying a total of 11 people, including the family of six, four crew members, and a local guide. The vessel sank due to engine failure amid poor weather conditions.

On Saturday, rescue operations led to the recovery of three individuals, including Martin’s wife and one daughter. However, Martin, his two sons, aged 12 and 10, and his youngest daughter, aged 9, were still missing.

Valencia CF confirmed the deaths of its coach and his children, calling it a “devastating loss.” Real Madrid CF also expressed condolences, emphasizing their support for Martin’s wife, Andrea, and surviving daughter, Mar.

The search effort has involved multiple rescue units navigating strong currents and high waves, with divers deployed to locate the missing family members. Despite challenging conditions, Rahman noted that the search teams remain determined to find the victims.

As the weekend concluded, rescuers discovered the body of a female victim believed to be one of the children near Serai Island. The body was transported for identification, furthering the investigation into the tragic accident.

This incident highlights ongoing safety concerns in Indonesia, where boat accidents are not uncommon due to lax safety standards and overcrowding on vessels.