Italian authorities investigating the tragic sinking of a luxury yacht off the coast of Sicily have opened an investigation into potential crimes of “shipwreck and manslaughter”. The yacht, named Bayesian, went down during a storm in the early hours of Monday morning, claiming the lives of seven people, including UK tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch and his 18-year-old daughter Hannah.
Initially believed to have been caused by a waterspout, authorities now say the most likely cause was a powerful wind known as a downburst. The bodies of other victims, including prominent individuals like Jonathan and Judy Bloomer, and Clifford Chance lawyer Chris Morvillo and his wife Neda Morvillo, were recovered from the wreckage after days of deep dive searches.
The remaining 15 people on board were rescued, but the investigation is ongoing to determine responsibility for the tragic incident. Chief prosecutor Ambrogio Cartosio emphasized the need for a thorough investigation to establish each individual’s responsibility.
The Italian Air Force confirmed that the sinking was likely caused by a downburst, a localised, powerful wind that descends from a thunderstorm. The search and rescue operation involved about 70 people each day, with over 120 dives conducted in challenging weather conditions.
Friends and family members have paid tribute to the victims, describing them as incredible individuals and expressing their grief over the tragic loss. The investigation into the yacht sinking continues as authorities work to determine the exact circumstances that led to the devastating incident.
