A tragic storm off Sicily led to the sinking of Mike Lynch’s yacht, resulting in the death of the British tech tycoon and six others. Crew member Matthew Griffiths recounted the night of the disaster, where every effort was made to save passengers on board the Bayesian. The captain, James Cutfield, along with Griffiths and ship engineer Tim Parker Eaton, are under investigation for potential manslaughter and shipwreck, although being investigated does not imply guilt.
Griffiths woke the captain when the wind reached 20 knots, leading to a chaotic rescue operation as the ship tilted and passengers were thrown into the water. Despite the harrowing circumstances, 15 survivors were rescued, including a mother and child saved by Cutfield. Cutfield chose to remain silent during questioning, citing exhaustion.
As investigations continue, theories about the cause of the sinking include a powerful “downburst” wind. Experts are baffled by the rapid sinking of the Perini-built yacht, questioning why a vessel of its caliber would succumb so suddenly.
With the wreckage still underwater, prosecutors are faced with a lengthy investigation in the aftermath of the tragedy.
© Thomson Reuters 2024.