Man Dies After Jumping From Carnival Cruise Ship During Anniversary Trip

Thomas Gigler, a 56-year-old married father, has been identified as the man who jumped from the Carnival Panorama cruise ship while on a trip celebrating his 15th wedding anniversary. The incident occurred six days into the voyage as the ship was heading back home.

Gigler, along with his wife Michelle, 48, and their three sons, boarded the Carnival Panorama for a weeklong journey along the Mexican Riviera. The ship departed from Long Beach on September 13 and was scheduled to return on Sunday morning. Gigler reportedly went overboard as the ship neared its destination.

U.S. and Mexican Coast Guard rescuers have been searching for Gigler since he fell from the vessel. He is now presumed to have died. The exact circumstances leading to his jump remain unclear.

Gigler and Michelle were set to celebrate their 15th wedding anniversary on Wednesday, four days after his death. They were married on September 23, 2011. His sister, Wendy Dowden, shared a theory, suggesting her brother may have experienced a psychotic break. Dowden stated that the family believed his marriage was strong and did not suspect any marital issues.