American Archaeologist Found Dead After Viking Ship Capsizes in Norway

Authorities in Norway have confirmed the recovery of the body of 29-year-old American archaeologist Karla Dana, who went missing after the capsizing of a replica Viking ship during an expedition from the Faroe Islands, CNN reports.

The US State Department has also confirmed the death of the US citizen off the Norwegian coast.

Dana, who was participating in the “Legendary Viking Voyage” project aboard the Naddoddur, a replica Viking boat, was reported missing after an incident that took place on Tuesday evening. She was part of a six-member crew when the boat sent out a distress signal at around 5:45 p.m. local time. After a delayed response, rescue teams arrived about 50 minutes later, only to find the crew had signaled for safety, leading the team to temporarily withdraw.

However, around 8 p.m., another distress call was issued. Local civilian vessels reached the scene and discovered that the boat had capsized. Five passengers were located on a life raft and were safely airlifted around 8:50 p.m. local time. Emergency crews worked through the night, and when conditions improved the following morning, they located Dana’s body.

Norwegian authorities confirmed that the remaining crew included one Faroese national and four Swiss nationals. The Norwegian Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) reported that weather conditions had previously hampered search efforts.

 “We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased,” a spokesperson from the US State Department said.