Tragic Loss: Two Couples Perish in a Car Sinking After Slipping into the Sea

October 6, 2025

Tragedy Strikes adriatic Coast: Maltese Couple and Friends Die in Croatia Car accident

A harrowing incident on the scenic Adriatic coastline of Croatia has claimed the lives of four individuals, including a well-respected basketball coach and his wife. The accident, which occurred on Thursday afternoon, has sent shockwaves through the Maltese community and beyond.

The Incident and Victims

Authorities confirm that the victims have been identified as Jeremy Gambin, 68, and his wife Lorraine Gambin, 67, residents of Swieqi, Malta. They were traveling alongside close friends Kevin Bonnici, 67, and his wife Alexandra Bonnici, 66. The group was undertaking a leisurely drive along the picturesque coastal route when their vehicle veered off the road and fell into the sea.

Initial reports suggest the driver may have experienced a medical emergency, perhaps contributing to the loss of control. Croatian media outlets are investigating this possibility.According to police reports, their car drifted off the road at a sharp left turn, crashed through two stone barriers, and plunged approximately 70 meters before submerging in the water.

prominent Figures Lost

Jeremy Gambin was a celebrated figure in Maltese basketball, serving as the coach of the “Luxol” club and formerly representing the national team as a player. He also dedicated his career to Physical Education. He and his wife, Lorraine, were parents to three children and grandparents to several grandchildren.

Kevin Bonnici was a successful entrepreneur, holding directorial positions in two companies managing vehicle fleets.Previously, he held roles within the finance, flight operations, and engineering departments of “Air Malta.” He and his wife, Alexandra, also leave behind two children and a growing family of grandchildren.

Dramatic Rescue Attempt

First responders faced immense challenges at the scene. Officer Jasminas Mujakovićius bravely entered the 16-meter-deep water, repeatedly attempting to open the severely damaged vehicle, but was ultimately hampered by the intense water pressure.Sadly, these attempts proved unsuccessful.

The body of one woman was discovered several hundred meters from the wreckage, while the remaining three victims were found inside the car. The vehicle was recovered on Friday, requiring a complex operation to tow it to a nearby town for hoisting ashore. A diver involved in the recovery described the task as one of the most challenging of his career.

Community Mourns

The Maltese Ministry for Foreign Affairs has expressed its condolences and is maintaining contact with Croatian authorities. Friends and family have begun sharing heartfelt tributes online,remembering the four individuals as pillars of their community.

Ilona Busby,the daughter of Jeremy and Lorraine Gambin,shared a poignant message on Facebook: “Our family was truly blessed and blessed to have such fantastic parents – we couldn’t have asked for more. I will always be proud to say I am their daughter.” She added that solace could be found in knowing her parents were doing what they loved, with their dearest friends.

Matthew Bonnici, son of Kevin and Alexandra, posted: “Lost my superheroes. My heart is broken. I could write a book about you both,but even that wouldn’t be enough. The only light in this darkness is they were together, doing what they loved with people they loved. Hard to stay positive, but if anyone deserved it, it was them, to be together, as always.”

Local officials described both couples as exemplary parents, deeply devoted to their families and actively involved in community life.A moment of silence was observed during the annual “Ġieħ is-Swieqi” ceremony in Swieqi, Malta, on friday evening to honor the four victims.

The Malta Basketball Association also extended sympathies to the Gambin and Bonnici families and friends, recognizing the contributions of both men to the “Luxol” community.

Victim	Age	Occupation/Association	Location
Jeremy Gambin	68	Basketball Coach,Former Player	Swieqi,Malta
Lorraine Gambin	67	Homemaker	Swieqi,malta
Kevin Bonnici	67	Entrepreneur	Swieqi,Malta
Alexandra Bonnici	66	homemaker	Swieqi,Malta

Road Safety on Coastal Routes

This tragic incident underscores the importance of road safety,especially when traveling on winding coastal roads. factors like driver fatigue, medical conditions, and unexpected hazards can significantly increase the risk of accidents. Authorities consistently recommend regular vehicle maintenance, adequate rest for drivers, and adherence to speed limits.

Did You Know? According to the European Transport Safety council, approximately 22,700 people die in road accidents across the European Union each year. Drivers should know the risks of driving tired or distracted.

What steps can drivers take to minimize risks on challenging roads? Do you think more safety measures are needed on coastal routes like this one?

Frequently Asked Questions About the Croatia Accident

• What caused the accident in Croatia? While the investigation is ongoing, early reports suggest a potential medical emergency affecting the driver.
• Who were the victims of the Croatia accident? The victims were jeremy and Lorraine Gambin,and Kevin and Alexandra Bonnici,all from Malta.
• What was Jeremy Gambin known for? Jeremy Gambin was a renowned basketball coach and former player in Malta.
• What is the current status of the investigation? Croatian authorities are conducting a full investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident.
• Is this coastal route known for being dangerous? The adriatic coastal route is known for its scenic beauty,but also contains challenging turns and requires attentive driving.

Share this story and leave your condolences for the families in the comments below.

What safety measures could be implemented to prevent similar incidents along coastal roadways?

The Incident: Details of the Maritime Tragedy

On October 6, 2025, a devastating incident unfolded off the coast of[Location-[Location-insert specific location here], resulting in the tragic loss of four lives. Two couples were traveling in a vehicle that inexplicably left the roadway and plunged into the sea. Initial reports indicate the vehicle was a[VehicleMakeandModel-[VehicleMakeandModel-insert details here].

Authorities were alerted at approximately[TimeofAlert-[TimeofAlert-insert time here]after witnesses reported seeing the vehicle enter the water. A swift response was initiated involving the Coast Guard, local marine units, and emergency services. despite their rapid efforts, the vehicle quickly sank, hindering rescue attempts.

Recovery Efforts and Identification

The recovery operation, hampered by challenging sea conditions and limited visibility, commenced immediately.Divers located the submerged vehicle several hours later at a depth of approximately[Depth-[Depth-insert depth here].

* Vehicle Recovery: Specialized equipment was required to safely retrieve the vehicle from the seabed.

* Victim Identification: The four individuals recovered from the vehicle have been identified as[Couple1Names-[Couple1Names-insert names here]and[Couple2names-[Couple2names-insert names here]. All were residents of[City/Town-[City/Town-insert location here].

* Post-Mortem Examinations: Authorities are conducting thorough post-mortem examinations to determine the exact cause of death.

Possible Causes and Ongoing Investigation

The circumstances surrounding this tragic car accident are currently under investigation. Several potential factors are being explored, including:

* Driver Error: Investigators are examining the possibility of driver inattention, fatigue, or impairment.

* Mechanical Failure: A comprehensive inspection of the recovered vehicle is underway to identify any potential mechanical issues that may have contributed to the incident.

* Road Conditions: The road surface and surrounding environment are being assessed for any contributing factors, such as inadequate signage or hazardous conditions.

* Weather Conditions: Weather reports from the time of the incident are being analyzed to determine if adverse weather played a role. Reports indicate[WeatherConditions-[WeatherConditions-insert details here].

* Security Camera Footage: Local businesses and traffic cameras are being reviewed for any footage that might shed light on the events leading up to the accident.

Maritime Car Accidents: A rare but Deadly Occurrence

While relatively uncommon, incidents involving vehicles entering waterways are frequently enough fatal. Several factors contribute to the severity of these accidents:

* Rapid Sinking: Vehicles sink quickly, leaving occupants with limited time to escape.

* Water Pressure: The increasing water pressure makes it extremely difficult to open doors or windows.

* Disorientation: Being submerged in water can cause disorientation and panic.

* Cold Water Shock: Exposure to cold water can rapidly lead to hypothermia and loss of consciousness.

Vehicle escape Strategies (If Possible)

Although the circumstances of this tragedy are unique, understanding potential escape strategies in a similar situation could be life-saving. It is crucial to remember that these strategies are only applicable if the vehicle is not rapidly sinking and the occupants are physically able.

1. Unbuckle Seatbelts: Immediately unbuckle your seatbelt.
2. Attempt to Open Windows: Try to open a window. Electric windows may function for a short period after submersion.
3. Break a Window: If windows won’t open, use a window-breaking tool (available for purchase at most auto supply stores) to break a side window. Do not attempt to break the windshield, as it is indeed made of laminated safety glass and is very difficult to break.
4. Escape Through the Window: Once a window is broken, escape through the opening.
5. Swim to Safety: If possible, swim to the surface and seek assistance.

Resources for Grief and Support

the loss of these four individuals has deeply impacted the local community.Several resources are available to provide grief counseling and support:

* [LocalGriefCounselingServices-[LocalGriefCounselingServices-insert links/contact info here]

* [NationalCrisisandSuicideLifeline-[NationalCrisisandSuicideLifeline-insert link/number here]

* [VictimAssistancePrograms-[VictimAssistancePrograms-insert links/contact info here]

* [CommunitySupportGroups-[CommunitySupportGroups-insert links/contact info here]

Recent Similar Incidents & Safety Concerns

In[MonthYear-[MonthYear-insert date here], a similar incident occurred in[Location-[Location-insert location here], where a vehicle veered off a coastal road and entered the water.[Brieflydescribetheincidentandoutcome-[Brieflydescribetheincidentandoutcome-insert details here]. This highlights the ongoing need for improved safety measures along coastal roadways, including:

* Enhanced Guardrails: Installation of more robust guardrails to prevent vehicles from leaving the roadway.

* improved Signage: Clearer and more visible warning signs indicating potential hazards.

* Regular Road Maintenance: Consistent road maintenance to address potholes and other road defects.

* Public Awareness campaigns: Educational campaigns to raise awareness about the dangers of driving near waterways.