June the 27th, 2026 – The 33-year-old first officer of the Krilo Eclipse catamaran who was arrested following a fatal collision with a sailboat which took the lives of four Czech nationals has been released.
Index reports that the first officer of the Krilo Eclipse who was suspected in connection with an exceptionally serious maritime accident near Split, has been released and will continue to defend himself while free.
The accident happened on June 14 near Splitska vrata, a busy but fairly narrow sea passage between the central Dalmatian islands of Šolta and Brač. The catamaran, which was travelling along the Split–Hvar route, collided with a sailing boat carrying eight Czech citizens. Four people from the sailboat tragically lost their lives, the other four had to be treated immediately for their injuries in hospital, and the vessel sank to the depths after the collision.
The first officer had been held in custody because authorities feared he could influence witnesses. After key crew members were questioned, including the captain, engineers, and other crew members, prosecutors determined that the reasons for keeping him in custody no longer existed.
The officer denies responsibility for the crash. His lawyer said he provided a detailed statement and claimed that he had taken steps to avoid the collision. The defense argues that the circumstances of the accident have not yet been fully established.
Investigators suspect possible violations of maritime safety rules, including issues related to navigation, speed, lookout procedures, and the use of safety equipment. The investigation is continuing.
