Back to News
News

Tragic Incident: Young Man Dies in Spearfishing Accident in Santa Cruz

Madeira GuideMadeira Guide
February 19, 2026
3 min read

A 24-year-old man tragically lost his life while spearfishing near the Santa Cruz pier in Madeira. Authorities are investigating the circumstances of the accident.

A 24-year-old young man tragically died on February 18, while engaging in spearfishing near the pier of Santa Cruz, a coastal town on the island of Madeira, Portugal. The incident, which occurred in the afternoon, has left the local community in shock, as the exact cause of the accident remains unknown.

The National Maritime Authority reported that the emergency services were alerted at 3:43 PM. In response, local police, forensic diving teams, and various emergency response units, including the Santa Cruz Fire Brigade, the Rapid Medical Intervention Team (EMIR), and SANAS Madeira, were promptly activated.

Upon arrival, the forensic diving team retrieved the victim from the water. Unfortunately, attempts to revive him were unsuccessful, and the death was confirmed by the Health Delegate at the SANAS Madeira station. The body is to be transported to the Legal and Forensic Medicine Office of Madeira for further examination.

In light of this tragic event, the Psychological Support Unit of the Maritime Police has been engaged to assist those affected by the incident. The Local Maritime Police Command of Funchal has launched a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the young man's death.

Spearfishing is a popular activity in Madeira, attracting both locals and tourists. However, it involves inherent risks, especially when safety precautions are not meticulously followed. This incident serves as a somber reminder of the potential dangers associated with underwater sports.

Sources

Madeira Guide

Madeira Guide

Author