**Tragic Shipwreck Claims 19 Lives; One Survivor Found After Hours**

UPDATE: A devastating maritime tragedy unfolded on Arranmore Island on November 9, 1935, when a yawl capsized while returning home, claiming the lives of 19 individuals. Only one man, Paddy Gallagher, managed to survive after enduring a harrowing night at sea.

As darkness fell at around 5:45 PM, the fishing boat left Burtonport with a group of 20, including families returning from seasonal work in Scotland. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation as loved ones awaited their arrival. Tragically, the excitement turned to horror as the boat encountered treacherous conditions and capsized shortly thereafter.

Witnesses reported that the group was subject to hail and worsening wind, leading to chaos aboard the vessel. “Men shouted and cursed, women screamed and cried,” recalled survivor Paddy Gallagher, who clung to the keel alongside his brother and father as the icy waters engulfed them.

The vessel was caught in a notorious area known as Ballinellan, with local authorities later noting the lack of safety measures in this dangerous passage. Emergency services, including the Civic Guards from Burtonport, launched a desperate search operation, recovering nine bodies, including that of Gallagher’s father, Edward, and four of his siblings.

Family members awaited news on the island, unaware of the tragedy that had struck. Annie Gallagher, the wife of Edward, was left in shock, believing only her husband had perished, while the community grappled with the immense loss.

The bodies were discovered scattered along the shore, revealing the grim reality of the night’s events. Among the recovered were young men aged between 17 and 29, along with two of Gallagher’s sisters.

Local officials described the scene as “pitiable in the extreme,” with many residents of Arranmore overcome with grief. The inquest into the disaster highlighted the need for improved safety measures in the perilous waters.

Paddy Gallagher, the only survivor, faced the tragic aftermath, grappling with the loss of seven family members. In a poignant statement, he reflected, “It never leaves my mind… I had to survive to tell the tale.” His remarkable endurance has drawn widespread attention, with many praising his courage during the disaster.

As the community mourns, calls for action to enhance maritime safety continue to grow. Local leaders are urging authorities to implement safety measures to prevent future tragedies in these treacherous waters.

Stay tuned for further updates as this tragic story develops.