Container Ship’s Captain Killed Himself Onboard – Inquest Report

1961

In an unfortunate turn of events, a sea captain reportedly committed suicide onboard a ship when the ship was proceeding towards New York City.

What happened?

The 59 year old Captain  from Poland, was found dead by a crew member onboard the ship. The ship was halfway between America and the UK at the time.

The Captain was reportedly placed in the provision store along with the ligature. The reason for the apparent decision remains unknown as the captain did not leave behind a suicide note.

Postmortem conducted:

The ship was halted at Tilbury port and his death was confirmed by the doctor. The body was taken for post mortem and toxicology samples were taken. Death due to suspicious circumstances has been ruled out.

Coroner’s officer, Jemma Cook, told Chelmsford Coroner’s Court: “He was placed in the provision store along with the ligature. No note was found at the scene.”

Captain suffered from depression:

Senior coroner Caroline Beasley-Murray said: “It would appear that his family in Poland knew he suffered from depression. I have come to the very sad conclusion that Mr Trojanowski took his own life. I have to be very sure, which I am. I am going to record a conclusion that Mr Trojanowski killed himself”.

Crew distraught:

The crew members have been traumatised by the incident onboard the ship. They were counselled by the seafaring charity Apostleship of the Sea. A priest had reportedly been called into conduct a mass and bless specific areas on the ship were the body was found.

The Port chaplain, Fr Colum Kelly, also listened to the crew members and offered emotional support and prayers for their well-being.

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Source: Braintree & Witham Times