PADI Responds to Cancun Diver Fatalities

In March, two Americans were diving from the boat Squalo Adventures, off Isla Mujeres, near Cancun, when Scuba Cancun's boat, Mr. Tom, plowed recklessly over the buoy to which they were ascending, killing both of them (Undercurrent July).

Scuba Cancun is a PADI 5-star center and continues to operate. In researching our story, we asked Johnny Wetzstein, PADI Director, Quality Management, PADI, if they had information about the incident and if they intended to take any steps against Scuba Cancun. We received his response too late for our July story, so here is his reply:

Dear Undercurrent,

The entire PADI Family were saddened to hear about the tragic maritime accident off Isla Mujeres in Mexico earlier this year. Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to the family members for their heart-breaking loss.

As this was a maritime incident that did not involve training, the details would more appropriately be obtained from the local authorities. PADI cannot comment on the details of its pending investigation or outcome. PADI always holds its members accountable to the diving industry's highest standards for safety, training, professional reliability and integrity.

- Johnny Wetzstein
PADI Director, Quality Management