SAIPAN — The Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation has assumed custody of the remains recovered from the overturned cargo vessel Mariana, after receiving official certification from the U.S. Coast Guard authorizing the transfer, CHCC announced Friday.
CHCC said the remains have been secured at the CHCC morgue and will be handled in accordance with established protocols until a certified medical examiner can complete the necessary examination. At this time, CHCC said it has no information about the identity of the deceased. Access to the remains is strictly prohibited and they are not available for public viewing.
CHCC said it is working closely with authorities to coordinate next steps and ensure all appropriate procedures are followed. The organization extended its sympathies to the family, loved ones and all those impacted.
Five crew members from the Mariana remain missing. The search continues offshore Saipan with assets from the United States, Japan and New Zealand. Anyone with information should contact the Joint Rescue Coordination Center Honolulu at 1-800-331-6176 or the U.S. Coast Guard on VHF-FM Channel 16.
