A young cabin boy aboard the Colombian Navy’s sail training ship ARC Gloria has died after falling from the vessel’s rigging while it was approaching the port of Barranquilla.
The incident occurred as the crew carried out routine maneuvers to prepare for arrival. According to naval sources, the victim, identified as Julian Fernando Condia Bello, lost his grip while climbing the mainmast as part of a traditional entry ritual. He reportedly struck a railing before falling into the Magdalena River.
Emergency procedures were immediately launched. Naval and Coast Guard units began a large-scale search operation, supported by local officials, including the governor of Atlántico. After hours of efforts hampered by river conditions, Bello’s body was recovered the following morning.
The Colombian Navy expressed its condolences to the family and has provided counseling and support in the wake of the tragedy. All public events scheduled during the vessel’s port call in Barranquilla have been canceled.
Authorities confirmed that a formal investigation is under way to determine the circumstances that led to the fatal accident.
The ARC Gloria, commissioned in 1968, is the Navy’s flagship and a symbol of Colombia at sea. It serves as a training platform for naval cadets and is regularly seen at international maritime festivals.
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