82-Year-Old Passenger Dies in Accident at St. Maarten Cruise Port: Incident on 26 December 2024

On 26 December 2024, an 82-year-old cruise ship passenger died following an accident at the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise and Cargo Facility in Philipsburg, St. Maarten. The passenger, who was using an electric wheelchair, fell into the sea at approximately 5:00 p.m. local time and could not be resuscitated despite immediate emergency response efforts.

Preliminary investigations suggest that a malfunction in the electric wheelchair may have contributed to the accident. The Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) has expressed condolences to the passenger's family. The identity of the deceased and the cruise ship involved have not been officially confirmed, though the passenger is suspected to have been a guest on AIDAmar.

The accident occurred at the cruise facility in Philipsburg at approximately 5:00 p.m. local time on 26 December 2024. The passenger, operating an electric wheelchair, fell into the sea. Emergency responders arrived quickly and initiated resuscitation efforts, but were unable to revive the passenger.

Fatalities

• 1 passenger, 82 years old, deceased at the scene.

Injuries

• None reported.

Rescued

• Passenger recovered from the sea; resuscitation attempted but unsuccessful.

Emergency responders arrived at the scene promptly and initiated resuscitation efforts. Despite immediate intervention, the passenger could not be revived.

The Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) is investigating the incident. Preliminary findings suggest that a malfunction in the electric wheelchair may have contributed to the accident. The identity of the deceased and official confirmation of the vessel involved remain pending.