NATIONAL, BNEWSID – Deep sorrow has struck the international football community following the tragic death of Fernando Martin Carreras, head coach of Valencia CF Women’s B team, in a tourist boat accident in the waters of Padar Strait, Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara.

The incident occurred on December 26, 2025, a day after Christmas, at around 9:00 p.m. Central Indonesia Time (WITA).

In the devastating accident, Carreras was not alone. Three of his children, aged 9, 10, and 12, were also confirmed dead. Meanwhile, his wife, Andrea, and their youngest child, Mar (7), survived the tragedy.

The accident began when Carreras and his family were traveling aboard the tourist vessel KM Putri Sakinah, which departed from Komodo Island to Padar Island at approximately 8:00 p.m. WITA. The boat was carrying 11 people, including crew members, a tour guide, and passengers.

About 30 minutes into the journey, the vessel reportedly suffered engine failure amid high waves reaching up to 1.5 meters. Unable to withstand the rough sea conditions, KM Putri Sakinah capsized and sank in the waters of Padar Strait.

Following a report from the boat operator, a search and rescue operation was immediately launched. A joint team consisting of the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas), the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL), and the local Marine Police was deployed to evacuate the victims.

As a result of the operation, seven people were rescued alive, including two Spanish nationals—Andrea and Mar—four crew members, and one tour guide. Tragically, Fernando Martin Carreras and his three children were found deceased.

Valencia CF later confirmed the heartbreaking news through an official statement, expressing profound condolences over the passing of Carreras and his three children in the boat accident in Indonesia. The club also conveyed its full support to the bereaved family, colleagues, and the entire Valencia CF community.

Meanwhile, Carreras’ father-in-law, Enrique Ortuno, revealed that Andrea and Mar were on a higher part of the vessel when the accident occurred and were thrown into the sea, allowing them to be rescued. He believes that Carreras and the three children were trapped inside the boat when it overturned.

The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maritime safety, particularly in leading tourist destinations such as Labuan Bajo, which continues to attract both domestic and international visitors. (*)