Police confirm identity of men who died when fishing vessel sank

Police were made aware of the incident via the Coastguard shortly after 4am on Saturday 9th April.

The two men who sadly died can be identified as:

Martin Johnstone, aged 29, from Halkirk, Caithness

Chris Morrison, aged 27, from Stornoway, Isle of Lewis

One of the crew members remains missing at sea and can be identified as:

Paul Alliston (formerly MacMillan) aged 42, from Lochs, Isle of Lewis.

Searches of the area where the boat sank were conducted by the lifeboat last night (Monday 11th April 2016) and further searches will be carried out in an effort to locate Mr Alliston.

The incident is now under investigation by Police Scotland and the Marine Accident and Investigation Branch, the findings of which will be the subject of a report to the Procurator Fiscal.

Chief Inspector Gordon MacLeod, Area Commander for the Western Isles said: “Our thoughts are with the loved ones of the men who sadly lost their lives as a result of this tragic incident.

“Understandably, the families involved will seek answers and we hope by carrying out a thorough investigation with the MAIB we will understand the events which lead to the vessel sinking and the loss of life.

“The dedication and professionalism displayed by local Coastguard and Lifeboat personnel throughout the incident is to be commended.”