Coast Guard hearing on Titanic sub tragedy involving OceanGate employees

On June 18, 2023, the Titan submersible, carrying five individuals, including prominent businessmen, went missing while en route to the Titanic wreck site. A search operation was initiated, but it concluded tragically when US authorities determined that the vessel had suffered a catastrophic implosion, resulting in the instant death of all on board. The victims included Stockton Rush, CEO of OceanGate, and notable figures such as Hamish Harding and Paul-Henri Nargeolet. In the aftermath of the incident, the Coast Guard launched a Marine Board of Investigation to examine the circumstances surrounding the loss of the Titan. The board's objective is to uncover the facts related to the tragedy and to develop recommendations aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future. The investigation will cover various aspects, including regulatory compliance, crew qualifications, and emergency response protocols. Former employees of OceanGate, the company that owned the Titan, are set to testify during the public hearing, which is taking place in Charleston County, South Carolina, and is expected to last two weeks. Key witnesses include co-founder Guillermo Sohnlein and other former directors of the company, alongside Coast Guard officials and industry experts. The hearing is significant as it represents the highest level of marine casualty investigation conducted by the Coast Guard. The findings from this inquiry will be compiled into a report that will include evidence, conclusions, and recommendations to enhance maritime safety and prevent future tragedies in the submersible industry.