The captain of the luxury yacht Bayesian, James Cutfield, is under investigation for involuntary manslaughter and negligent shipwreck following the tragic capsizing off the coast of Sicily. The incident, which occurred during a fierce storm, resulted in the deaths of six passengers, including prominent British businessman Mike Lynch and his daughter Hannah. Investigators are probing the meteorological conditions, the crew's actions, and whether the yacht's safety protocols were followed.
The tragedy unfolded on August 19, when the yacht capsized near Porticello, Sicily, amidst a storm believed to have been intensified by a waterspout. Cutfield, who survived along with 14 others, is currently barred from leaving Italy as the investigation continues. Prosecutors are examining the timeline of events leading up to the capsizing, particularly the 32 minutes between the yacht taking on water and the firing of a distress flare. The investigation will also look into whether the yacht's hatches were secured and if the crew acted appropriately during the emergency.
As the investigation unfolds, questions remain about the yacht's safety features, including the presence of a black box, and the actions of the crew during the storm. The bodies of the deceased were reportedly found in cabins, suggesting they may have been seeking safety as the yacht sank. The recovery of the yacht will be crucial for determining the exact circumstances of the tragedy and ensuring accountability for the victims' families.
