Woolwich Ferry death: Crew member was hit by propellers

A young crew member on the Woolwich Ferry who died after falling off the boat in the River Thames was hit by the propellers.

The 19-year-old is thought to have been hit by the ferry’s propellers after he fell in the water in the incident this morning.

The free ferry service between Woolwich and North Woolwich, has been suspended all day while an investigation is carried out by the Marine Accident Investigation Bureau.

A Scotland Yard spokesman said they were called to the Ferry’s south terminal at 6.10am.

A spokesman for the London Coastguard said it understood the man fell while mooring ropes were being untied.

Coastguards managed to pull the victim ashore but waiting paramedics were unable to revive him and he was pronounced dead.

A Transport for London spokesman said: “The Woolwich Ferry, operated by Serco on behalf of TfL, was involved in a fatal incident with a male staff member. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time. The Woolwich Ferry will remain closed pending a full investigation into the incident.”

The man was declared dead by the London Ambulance Service.

A post mortem will be held in due course.

Signs have been posted at the ferry entrances on both sides of the River Thames.

Traffic is being diverted to the Blackwall Tunnel and other river crossings.,