VYPIN: A fisherman died after boats collided in the deep sea waters at Munambam beach on Sunday. Eight people fell into the sea in the impact of the collision but were rescued. Kollam Pallithottam native Jose(60) is the deceased.

The ‘Silver Star' boat belonging to Marthandam native Raju Pathanthura collided with Thalakkad Arshad's ‘Nourin Mol’ boat after the two boats set sail from Thoppumpady harbour on Saturday morning. Jose's son Jobin was also in the boat at the time of the incident. Eight crew members, including Jose, were thrown into the sea from the wrecked Silver Star. Jobin escaped by holding on to the rope thrown by the ‘Nourin Mol’ boatmen.

After being rescued, Jobin eagerly waited for his father to appear from the sea and grab the ropes. Indeed Jose appeared and tried to reach the boat through the ropes but slipped midway to fall back into the sea. He was rescued but died just moments after reaching the surface of the boat. Jobin turned inconsolable learning about his father’s death. Those present near also found it hard to conceal their emotions.

The accident happened 28 nautical miles from Thoppumpady Harbor after 12 midnight in heavy rain. No other workers were injured.

A case of involuntary manslaughter has been filed against Kodimunai native Vimal Raj, who was the serang in 'Nourin Mol' boat. The mortal remains of Jose was handed over to his family after postmortem procedures.