The luxury yacht Bayesian sank in a storm off the coast of Sicily, resulting in the loss of five lives, with one person still missing. The incident occurred at around 5am on Monday, and rescue efforts have been ongoing since. The recovered bodies were taken to the port of Porticello, where they were being processed, with the identity of three of the five bodies yet to be confirmed by authorities.
The missing persons list includes technology tycoon Mike Lynch and his 18-year-old daughter Hannah, as well as Morgan Stanley International bank chairman Jonathan Bloomer and his wife Judy, and Clifford Chance lawyer Chris Morvillo and his wife Neda. The British Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has sent a team of four inspectors to investigate the sinking, which is understood to be the main cause of the tragedy.
Luxury Yacht Tragedy Claims Lives Off Sicilian Coast (Image via Getty)
Rescue efforts have been ongoing throughout the day, with teams of divers, naval units, and cave divers participating in the search. The wreckage of the Bayesian is lying on the seabed at a depth of 50 meters, making the operation complex and challenging. The Italian coastguard has been involved in the rescue efforts, with remotely controlled underwater vehicles used to access the vessel.
The passengers and crew of the yacht, numbering 22, were on board for a celebratory voyage following Mike Lynch’s acquittal in a fraud case in the US. The boat trip was intended to mark the occasion, with the passengers including close friends and acquaintances of the acquitted businessman.
