Death of French ferry crew member ruled accidental

Wednesday 18 December 2024

A Manche Iles Express crew member died after falling into the sea in Jersey last year, an inquest has heard.

Bernard Jambon was declared dead at the General Hospital on 23 July 2023 after he fell into deep water between two ferries at Victoria Pier.

A police investigation into the circumstances of his death was launched last year.

An inquest last week heard that Mr Jambon's foot slipped on the mooring rope whilst he was trying to cross between two stationary ferries moored side-by-side against the pier.

The 63-year-old fell into the deep water below. The wind was strong, causing a changing gap between the boats of up to three metres.

Mr Jambon ignored advice to wait for a gangway, the inquest heard.

Coronor Sarah Whitby ruled that Mr Jambon died from a cardiac atheroma caused by water immersion, which was compounded by alcohol intoxication.

She recorded a verdict of accidental death.

Manche Iles Express paid tribute to the “unanimously appreciated" crew member after his death last summer.

“It is with great sadness that we write these few words," the company said.

“Unanimously appreciated, we will forever keep in our memories your kindness and good humour.

“Rest in peace Bernard... Fair winds...”

A death notice posted to Ouest-France by the Compagnie des Pêches Saint-Malo also paid tribute to Mr Jambon, who had been part of the crew since 1978.

The company wrote: "He never stopped working, at sea and on land, for our activities to work well and to shine.

"Faithful and devoted, he will have left a mark on all those who were lucky enough to cross his path."