A 23-year-old French national has died after entering the water from a vessel at Hobart’s waterfront early this morning.
Police were called to Franklin Wharf about 3:55am on Tuesday after the man entered the water near Princes Wharf 1 and could not be found.
The man was a crew member aboard the Perseverance, a French-flagged vessel that recently arrived in Hobart from Antarctica.
A police boat searched the area but was unable to locate him.
Divers entered the water about 7am and found the man’s body shortly before 7:45am, not far from the vessel.
Tasmania Police are investigating the circumstances of the man’s death. Image / Pulse
Inspector John Toohey said the man appeared to have entered the water voluntarily.
“It appears that the male has jumped into the water on his own accord and got into trouble whilst in the water,” he said.
Police said there were no suspicious circumstances, but early indications suggest alcohol may have been involved.
The crew had completed their rotation aboard the Perseverance and were due to fly to Melbourne today.
Inspector Toohey said the crew members were “very distressed” by the incident.
Tasmania Police are investigating the circumstances of the man’s death. Image / Pulse
“They’re a tight-knit group. They’ve been working together for the last couple of weeks,” he said.
Police are using interpreters to take statements from crew members, who are expected to leave Hobart later today.
The French Embassy and Interpol have been notified and are assisting with contacting the man’s next of kin.
WorkSafe Tasmania is also involved, as the vessel is considered a workplace. A report will be prepared for the coroner.