Lily Jean Sinking Update: Jada Sammitt and Sean Therrien Named by Families

 GLOUCESTER, MA — The New England fishing community is mourning the loss of two crew members identified in the tragic sinking of the fishing vessel Lily Jean, which went down about 25 miles off the Massachusetts coast on Friday morning.

Authorities confirmed that Jada Sammitt, 22, of Virginia, and Sean Therrien, 44, of Lynn, Massachusetts, were among the seven people aboard the 72‑foot groundfish trawler when it activated its emergency position‑indicating radio beacon around 6:50 a.m. while returning to Gloucester. The U.S. Coast Guard launched an intensive search by air and sea, covering more than 1,000 square miles. Despite recovering one body and an unoccupied life raft, the mission was suspended Saturday after officials determined all reasonable efforts had been exhausted.

Sammitt had relocated to Massachusetts to pursue her passion for marine science, working as a fisheries observer and crewmember on the Lily Jean. Her family described her as deeply committed to protecting fisheries and the ocean, saying her presence aboard the vessel reflected her dedication to the importance of her work. Friends and colleagues in the scientific and fishing communities have remembered her as a bright young woman whose career was just beginning.

Therrien, a lifelong Lynn resident, had recently taken a winter job on the Lily Jean after being laid off from construction work. Known for his hardworking nature and devotion to his family, Therrien leaves behind two sons, Justin and Tyler. Loved ones have launched a GoFundMe campaign titled “In memory of Sean Therrien” to help support his family with funeral costs and other expenses. The fundraiser has drawn donations from across New England and beyond, reflecting the solidarity of the fishing community in times of loss.

The Lily Jean was captained by Gus Sanfilippo, a fifth‑generation commercial fisherman from Gloucester. Sanfilippo and his crew were previously featured in a 2012 episode of the History Channel series Nor’Easter Men, which highlighted the challenges and traditions of fishing in the Georges Bank. The vessel’s sinking has reignited conversations about the dangers of commercial fishing, one of the most hazardous professions in the United States, where crews face unpredictable weather, mechanical risks, and the unforgiving conditions of the Atlantic.

Community members in Gloucester and surrounding towns have expressed grief and disbelief at the tragedy. Vigils and memorials are being planned to honor Sammitt and Therrien, as well as the other crew members whose fates remain uncertain. For many, the loss underscores the sacrifices made by those who work at sea to sustain the region’s fishing industry.

As investigations continue, the Coast Guard is expected to review the circumstances surrounding the sinking, including weather conditions and the vessel’s mechanical state. Families of the victims are left grappling with unanswered questions while holding onto memories of loved ones who dedicated their lives to hard work and passion for the ocean.

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