Sep 2, 2024, 7:30 PM
Sep 2, 2024, 7:30 PM

Drowning deaths of superyacht passengers in Sicily storm revealed

Tragic
Highlights
  • The superyacht Bayesian sank off the coast of Sicily on August 19, resulting in seven fatalities.
  • Autopsies confirmed that the victims drowned, and investigations are ongoing into the incident.
  • Three crew members, including the captain, are under investigation for suspected negligent manslaughter.
Story

On August 19, a tragic incident occurred when the superyacht Bayesian sank off the coast of Sicily, resulting in the loss of seven lives, including tech billionaire Mike Lynch and his daughter Hannah. The vessel was caught in a freak storm, likely caused by a downburst, while anchored near Porticello. Autopsies confirmed that the two victims drowned, with no other injuries noted, as investigations into the incident continue. Survivors reported that the crew attempted to save as many passengers as possible during the chaos. Matthew Griffiths, a 22-year-old on watch duty, recounted the harrowing moments leading up to the sinking, where the yacht tilted dramatically, throwing people into the water. Despite the crew's efforts, only 15 individuals survived the disaster. Three crew members, including captain James Cutfield, are currently under investigation for suspected negligent manslaughter and causing a shipwreck. Cutfield has chosen to remain silent during questioning, as his legal team prepares a defense. The judicial investigation is ongoing, with authorities emphasizing the need for a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. The yacht has yet to be salvaged, and the investigation is expected to take time. The incident has raised serious concerns about safety protocols on luxury vessels and the responsibilities of crew members during emergencies, highlighting the need for accountability in maritime operations.

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