Capsizing and loss of life
Landing craft Duu Guusd and skiff
Langara Island, British Columbia
The occurrence
On 05 June 2025, at approximately 1520 Pacific Daylight Time, the master and a deckhand on the landing craft Duu Guusd were using a skiff to go from shore to the moored Duu Guusd when the skiff capsized off Kiusta, Haida Gwaii, British Columbia. Both the master and the deckhand fell into the water, which was approximately 10 °C. Both were wearing personal flotation devices. The deckhand lost consciousness and was pulled ashore by the master, with assistance from a person on shore. The master and others attempted to resuscitate the deckhand but were unsuccessful. The deckhand was later pronounced dead. The TSB is investigating.
Investigation information
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Class of investigation
This is a class 3 investigation. These investigations analyze a small number of safety issues, and may result in recommendations. Class 3 investigations are generally completed within 450 days. For more information, see the Policy on Occurrence Classification.
TSB investigation process
There are 3 phases to a TSB investigation
- Field phase: a team of investigators examines the occurrence site and wreckage, interviews witnesses and collects pertinent information.
- Examination and analysis phase: the TSB reviews pertinent records, tests components of the wreckage in the lab, determines the sequence of events and identifies safety deficiencies. When safety deficiencies are suspected or confirmed, the TSB advises the appropriate authority without waiting until publication of the final report.
- Report phase: a confidential draft report is approved by the Board and sent to persons and corporations who are directly concerned by the report. They then have the opportunity to dispute or correct information they believe to be incorrect. The Board considers all representations before approving the final report, which is subsequently released to the public.
For more information, see our Investigation process page.
The TSB is an independent agency that investigates air, marine, pipeline, and rail transportation occurrences. Its sole aim is the advancement of transportation safety. It is not the function of the Board to assign fault or determine civil or criminal liability.