RICHMOND, Virginia — What was meant to be the beginning of a promising career at sea has ended in heartbreak for a Virginia family.

Jada Samitt, 22, has been identified by her family in Richmond as one of the crew members who lost their lives when the fishing vessel Lily Jean sank off the coast of Massachusetts last week. Authorities confirmed that the U.S. Coast Guard suspended its search for survivors on Saturday after facing rough seas and dangerously cold waters.

Samitt had recently begun working aboard the Lily Jean as a fishery observer for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a role that supports federal efforts to monitor marine resources and ensure sustainable fishing practices. According to those familiar with the program, fishery observers often serve as independent scientific monitors, collecting data on catch volumes, species composition, and environmental conditions. The position is considered both demanding and meaningful — especially for young graduates seeking careers in marine science.

A graduate of Deep Run High School in Glen Allen, Samitt had reportedly been excited about embarking on what many described as her first significant assignment at sea. Friends say she packed her belongings into a duffel bag with anticipation, ready to take on long hours and challenging conditions as part of the crew.

The phrase shared by loved ones — “She had just begun” — captures both the brevity of her career and the sense of potential that surrounded her future. In context, the statement reflects more than her age. It underscores a life at an early stage of professional and personal growth. At 22, Samitt was stepping into a field that requires resilience, independence, and a strong commitment to environmental stewardship. The words suggest that family members saw this voyage not as a routine job, but as the launch of a long-term path shaped by ambition and service.

The Lily Jean’s sinking has also drawn attention to the broader risks faced by those working in commercial fishing and marine research. The waters off Massachusetts are known for their productivity — and their unpredictability. Weather patterns can shift quickly, and frigid temperatures significantly reduce survival time in the event of an emergency. Maritime safety experts note that even experienced crews can face severe challenges when conditions deteriorate rapidly.

The Coast Guard’s decision to suspend the search was described as difficult but necessary, given the environmental conditions. Search operations in cold, rough seas require careful balancing of rescue efforts with the safety of responders. Officials stated that exhaustive search patterns were conducted before the suspension was announced.

For families, however, the end of an active search does not mark the end of questions. Investigations into maritime incidents typically examine vessel maintenance records, weather reports, distress signals, and crew accounts where available. Federal and state agencies are expected to review the circumstances surrounding the sinking as part of a standard inquiry process.

In Richmond and Glen Allen, news of Samitt’s passing has prompted an outpouring of support. Former classmates and teachers have described her as driven and compassionate, someone who was eager to contribute to environmental research. Community members have emphasized her dedication to marine science and her willingness to work in challenging environments far from home.

Her role as a NOAA fishery observer placed her at the intersection of science and industry — a position designed to protect ocean ecosystems while supporting sustainable livelihoods. For many young professionals, it represents a stepping stone toward advanced research, policy work, or long-term maritime careers.

Now, instead of celebrating a first voyage, her family and community are mourning a life that had only just begun to unfold.

As investigations continue, those who knew Samitt say they hope her commitment to marine conservation and scientific service will be remembered alongside the tragedy that ended her journey too soon.