Prince Rupert- A man has died as a result of a freak accident aboard a commercial fishing vessel near the community of Port Simpson north of Prince Rupert.

Police responded to a report of a commercial fishing boat driving around in circles off the coast of that community at 10.09pm, June 25th.  

Other boats in the area were able to board the vessel, prior to the police arrival, only to discover a man entangled in a gill net.  He was removed from the net and taken to the health center in Port Simpson where he was pronounced dead.

The sole person, and operator of the boat, is identified as an Abbotsford area man.

The investigation into the death of the fishermen has now been turned over to the Coroners Service.

Police say foul play was not involved.