Helmsman faces trial for fatal Troia shipwreck

Manuel Coelho, a 64-year-old helmsman, is facing trial at the Setúbal Court for four counts of negligent homicide following a fatal shipwreck off the coast of Troia on April 7, 2024. The incident resulted in the deaths of four individuals: Ricardo Neves, 45; Francisco Neves, 11; and cousins Gabriel Caeiro, 23, and José Caeiro, 21.

The Public Ministry argues that Coelho, an experienced helmsman, knowingly operated the vessel ‘Lingrinhas’ in dangerous sea conditions with waves exceeding 3 meters to secure a 150-euro payment. Prosecutors contend that the weather conditions should have prevented any tourist maritime activity that day and criticized the decision to take an 11-year-old child on the trip as ‘particularly reckless.’

During the proceedings, Coelho remained silent and his defense argued the shipwreck was caused by an ‘unpredictable swell.’ The prosecution is seeking a prison sentence of no less than five years. A final verdict is expected on October 9.