On June 28, 2026, a tragic incident occurred off the coast of Richmond, British Columbia, when a charter fishing vessel capsized in the Strait of Georgia. The vessel, known as the Big Coast, was carrying ten passengers at the time of the disaster. Despite immediate rescue efforts, four individuals were rescued, while six others—1 man and 2 women—remain missing and are presumed drowned.
The search for the missing passengers was suspended on the evening of June 28, transitioning into a recovery operation. The RCMP Underwater Recovery Team utilized sonar equipment to locate the sunken vessel, which was found approximately 153 meters below the surface. The deep waters presented significant challenges for recovery efforts.
In the days following the disaster, the community of Richmond came together to honor the victims. On July 6, about 100 mourners gathered at the Imperial Landing Dock in Steveston, B.C., to pay tribute to those lost at sea. Dozens of bouquets of white flowers, a symbol of mourning in Chinese culture, were placed on the dock as friends and relatives embraced, sharing their grief and memories.
Among the victims was 23-year-old Chen Ming, the captain of the Big Coast. Described by loved ones as caring and dedicated, Chen's loss has deeply affected the community. His family and friends have expressed their devastation, highlighting his commitment to his passengers and his passion for the sea.
The RCMP continues to investigate the cause of the sinking, with a focus on the vessel's operation and maintenance. Authorities have identified the charter company as Top Vancouver Fishing Charter Inc., which operated the Big Coast. The investigation aims to determine whether any operational factors contributed to the tragedy.
As the community mourns, support services have been made available to those affected by the disaster. Counseling and assistance programs are in place to help individuals cope with the loss and the emotional impact of the event. The tragedy has also prompted discussions about safety regulations and practices within the charter fishing industry, with calls for enhanced safety measures to prevent future incidents.
The loss of six lives in the Richmond charter boat disaster has left a profound impact on the community, highlighting the importance of safety and preparedness in maritime activities. As investigations continue, the focus remains on honoring the victims and supporting their families during this difficult time.