Questions remain unanswered regarding the circumstances under which the 20-year-old sailor of the Blue Star Chios lost his life, when he was crushed by a garage door while starting his shift. The ship was operating the Rhodes-Piraeus route. It is recalled that 20-year-old Tasos was heading to the engine room to resume duty on the morning of Wednesday, September 24, 2025, having completed his previous shift at 17:00 the previous afternoon, when he became trapped in a watertight garage door, resulting in serious injuries and subsequently death.
How does this specific watertight door operate? According to the STAR program “Truths with Zina” report, the door in question seals automatically when the ship is at sea and unseals when it reaches port. It is exclusively controlled by the ship’s captain.
However, according to the same information, this particular door was not operating automatically, but manually via a lever. The sailor using it has complete control of the system, as the door moves only as long as pressure is applied to the lever. Regulations require the door to open fully before any crew member crosses through it. If someone attempts to pass before the opening is complete while simultaneously activating the closing mechanism, there is a risk of entrapment.
Questions about the 20-year-old sailor’s training
According to STAR, the unfortunate young man, who was studying at a private marine engineering school, had joined the ship’s crew on September 15 with the specialty of engine cleaner and was not a trainee, but a regular crew member. However, questions arise about his training. The young man reportedly received only one day of training, according to allegations by the Panhellenic Union of Merchant Marine Engineers (PEMEN). Additionally, he was reportedly shown the wrong way to enter his workspace and not the other entrance which was safe.
Death of 20-year-old sailor: ”He was inspired by his brother”
The unfortunate sailor’s family is devastated. As they state, all they want is to mourn their child. The funeral date has not yet been set, as they await the return of his older brother from abroad, where he works. Indeed, according to testimonies, this was the person who inspired him to get involved with ships, a desire he had from a very young age.
20-year-old sailor: How the tragic accident occurred leading to his death on Blue Star Chios
The fatal incident unfolded on the morning of Wednesday, September 24, 2025, when the 20-year-old sailor was found trapped in the garage’s sliding door. His colleagues found him unconscious and immediately called an ambulance for transport to Tzaneio General Hospital. Despite doctors’ efforts, the young man’s death was confirmed a few hours later. The fact that he lost his life on his birthday makes the tragedy even more painful for his family and friends. The circumstances leading to the 20-year-old’s death remain unclear.
Port authorities proceeded to arrest the captain and chief engineer of the passenger-vehicle ferry “Blue Star Chios” following the fatal injury of the 20-year-old crew member. They were subsequently released temporarily. Both are charged with manslaughter by negligence (article 302 of the Penal Code), while a preliminary investigation has been ordered.
Port Authority announcement:
“Regarding the death of the 20-year-old sailor aboard the E/G-O/G vessel “BLUE STAR CHIOS” N.P. 10883 in Piraeus, the two arrested individuals were brought today before the Piraeus First Instance Prosecutor’s Office and were temporarily released, while a preliminary investigation has been ordered.”
Blue Star Ferries announcements
In its latest announcement, Blue Star Ferries expresses its condolences to the 20-year-old sailor’s family: “The Management and employees of Blue Star Ferries express our devastation and sincere condolences to our colleague’s family, beside whom we have stood from the first moment, providing every possible support.
During this difficult time, all of us also stand by our crews, with respect and solidarity. Today’s Blue Star Chios voyage from Piraeus to Rhodes will not be executed.”
Earlier, in its first announcement about the schedule changes following the incident, it stated: “This morning at 8 o’clock on Blue Star Chios, which was operating the Rhodes – Piraeus route, a ship’s sailor was found – unconscious – trapped in a watertight sliding door. The ship’s crew immediately proceeded with the rescue and provided first aid.
Immediately after the ship’s arrival at Piraeus port at 09:15, the sailor was taken by EKAB ambulance for transport to hospital, where his death was confirmed. The Blue Star family is shocked and expresses its support to the sailor’s relatives. The company is cooperating with the competent Authorities to investigate the circumstances of the tragic incident.”
