Families of 10 sailors aboard sunken freighter settle claims

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) – The families of ten sailors aboard a cargo ship that sank in a hurricane last year have settled claims with the vessel’s owner.

The Florida Times-Union reports that each of the families will receive $500,000 each in the settlement with Tote Maritime Puerto Rico.

The 790-foot freighter El Faro sank after losing engine power and getting caught in a hurricane while sailing from Jacksonville to San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Thirty-three mariners were aboard, and some of their families have filed lawsuits against Tote claiming negligence.

Legal documents say the settlements cover “pre-death pain and suffering” and economic losses from the deaths.

Among the parties to settle is the family of the ship’s captain, Michael Davidson.

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