On 27.09.2008, at 04:05 h, an EPIRB distress signal has been received at Varna MRCC from Moscow MRCC from a point with probable coordinates at about 14 nautical miles to the East from Emine Cape.
After execution of initial actions and respective operational procedures for identification of distress signal the hypothesis for casualty of m/v „Tolstoy” in a point with coordinates: φ = 42°44’ N, λ = 028°12'E was accepted as reliable.
An operation for search and rescue has been conducted from 10.15 h to 17.30 h on 01.10.2008. Ships and a helicopter of NF, Border Police and MAEA has participated in the operation. Two crew members of m/v „Tolstoy” have been rescued by Mirage yacht, navigating under Belgian flag.
The rest 8 crew members have been declared missing as a result of foundering of m/v „Tolstoy”. 6