Lorraine Williamson
Spanish emergency services have launched an intensive search operation off the southwest coast of Mallorca after a motorboat was found abandoned, and the couple reported missing.
The disappearance of Angelita de Souza and Juan Herrera has raised urgent questions, prompting a coordinated response from multiple agencies.
Boat discovered with belongings onboard
On Monday evening, the empty vessel Zaragall was found drifting approximately one nautical mile from the island of Dragonera. De Souza’s son, who had raised the alarm earlier that day, located the motorboat with the help of a private skipper. All of the couple’s belongings were still onboard, but there was no sign of the pair.
The boat’s discovery followed two days of silence. De Souza and Herrera had set off from Port Adriano on Saturday afternoon. Herrera, a former police officer and experienced sailor, was navigating the boat. Since then, no contact has been made, and neither has returned home or made appearances at work.
Authorities launch maritime and air search
Upon receiving the report, the Guardia Civil initiated a large-scale search. Rescue boats, Red Cross teams, divers, and helicopters are now scouring the coastline between Calvià and the Tramuntana Mountains. A mobile command post has been established in San Telmo to coordinate efforts.
Investigators are pursuing multiple leads. Although no evidence of foul play has been found, the unanchored position of the boat has raised concerns. It is possible that an accident occurred at sea, potentially leading to the couple falling overboard.
Family remains hopeful
De Souza’s son emphasised his mother’s strong swimming ability and believes the pair could have reached a remote stretch of coastline. Given that the weather on Sunday was favourable, relatives hope the couple may still be alive in an inaccessible area.
Statements have been taken from close family members to help reconstruct the timeline and identify any overlooked details. Investigators are working on the theory that the couple fell into the sea and were unable to return to the vessel.
Ongoing operation
The Guardia Civil has confirmed that all possibilities remain under investigation. While hopes for a rescue remain, time is critical. Search teams near Mallorca continue to work against the clock in the hope of locating the missing couple alive.
Sources: ELPAÍS, Diario de Mallorca