Desperate to save themselves as the KM Barcelona 5 caught fire on Sunday (July 20, 2025), passengers were seen jumping from the ship. Dozens of people leapt from the vessel as it became engulfed in thick smoke.
Thick, black smoke billowed from the KM Barcelona 5. Some people were seen crammed onto the ship's deck, screaming, while others were already in the water. The passengers who jumped one by one were wearing orange life jackets, ensuring they could float.
As people reached out to one another, they tried to stay together in small groups in the vast open water. Some appeared to be in shock and panic, while others attempted to stay calm while they floated and waited for help.
A joint SAR team from Basarnas, the Indonesian Navy, and KPLP arrived at the scene and immediately began to evacuate the passengers floating in the water. All survivors were taken to Gangga II Island for medical attention and data collection. Authorities are still conducting searches and investigations to ensure all victims are found and the exact cause of the fire is determined.