Tote settles with families of El Faro crew

$500,000 for 'pain, suffering' as well as private amount for 'economic damages'

The families of 24 people killed in the sinking of the El Faro cargo ship settled claims against the ship’s owners for $500,000 each, according to court records.

The agreement awards the $500,000 for “pain and suffering,” and a separate, private amount for “economic damages.”

Spokesperson for Tote Maritime Puerto Rico Michael Hanson released the following statement:

Since the loss of the El Faro, we have focused every effort on supporting the families of those on board. An important part of this support has entailed reaching fair and swift legal settlements for those who may choose them. We can confirm that we have settled financially with 24 families through a respectful, equitable and meaningful mediation process, which includes payment of $500,000.00 for pain and suffering and a separate, private amount for economic damages. We stress that our support of all the families will continue. Out of respect for the legal process and the privacy of the families, we will not discuss the specifics of any individual settlements.

Attorneys for those not included in the settlement said they will continue to fight for their clients.