A day of scallop fishing turned deadly off the coast of Massachusetts when a snapped rope struck two crewmembers aboard a Maine-based fishing vessel on April 25, 2025. One crewman, 26-year-old Jaxson Marston, died from his injuries. Another was hospitalized after the Friday afternoon incident aboard the 25 TO LIFE.
The U.S. Coast Guard responded to a distress call around 4 p.m. after the vessel reported that a rope under tension had recoiled violently, injuring both men. The crew was engaged in routine operations when the line failed. While Marston suffered a broken neck and was declared dead upon hospital arrival, the second man’s injuries were serious but not considered life-threatening.
The Coast Guard transported both men to shore, and emergency medical services transferred them to Beverly Hospital. Officials have launched an investigation into the cause of the rope failure.
The Hidden Danger of Snapbacks in Commercial Fishing
Snapback incidents are among the most dangerous—and often underestimated—hazards on working boats. When a rope or cable used in heavy-duty operations like hauling nets or dredges fails under tension, it does not simply fall limp. Instead, the stored kinetic energy is released instantly, turning the rope into a whip-like projectile.
These “snapbacks” can happen so quickly and with such force that crew members have no time to react. Depending on the load, angle, and position of the break, a recoiling rope can travel across the deck at speeds exceeding 450 feet per second. The impact can cause life-threatening injuries, including broken bones, internal trauma, or death.
Snapback zones—areas where a rope is likely to travel if it breaks—are typically found in direct alignment with the rope path but can also include curved or sweeping trajectories if pulleys or winches are involved. On smaller vessels, such as scallop boats, these zones may encompass a large portion of the deck, offering crew little space to avoid injury.
Common causes of snapbacks include:
- Overloaded mooring lines or equipment
- Deteriorated or improperly maintained rope
- Corroded or failing rigging hardware
- Sudden mechanical malfunction or operator error
To mitigate the risk of a line handling incident, vessels should follow best practices that include:
- Routine inspection and replacement of all lines
- Use of synthetic ropes that provide safer failure characteristics
- Marking and enforcing no-go zones on deck
- Rigorous crew training on identifying and avoiding snapback hazards
Legal Options After Maritime Accidents
In the wake of tragic accidents at sea, families often face emotional loss and financial uncertainty. Maritime law may provide avenues for compensation, particularly if negligence or equipment failure played a role. Claims may be pursued under the Jones Act, general maritime law, or wrongful death statutes.
If a manufacturer defect, improper maintenance, or lack of safety protocols contributed to the accident, third-party liability may also be a factor.
Spagnoletti Law Firm is experienced in representing individuals and families affected by serious maritime accidents, including snapback injuries and accidents aboard commercial fishing vessels. We assist in investigating the circumstances, identifying liable parties, and securing compensation for medical costs, lost income, and other damages.
For a free, confidential consultation, call 713-804-9306 today. There are no legal fees unless we recover on your behalf.