Captain of Bayes yacht under investigation for manslaughter after tragic Sicily sinking left six people dead – CGWALL USA News

Bayesian yacht sinking in Sicily: Porticello, Sicily – The captain of the luxury yacht Bayesian is facing an investigation for manslaughter and negligent shipwreck after the vessel tragically sank off the coast of Sicily last week, resulting in the deaths of six passengers. The sinking occurred during a violent storm that caused the 56-metre yacht to capsize near Porticello, prompting a complex investigation by Italian authorities.

James Cutfield, 51, a New Zealander, was commander of the Bayesian when the ship was caught in a severe storm reportedly caused by a waterspout, a rare and intense weather phenomenon similar to a tornado. Among the victims were British tech tycoon Mike Lynch, his 18-year-old daughter Hannah and Recaldo Thomas, the yacht's chef. Also killed were Morgan Stanley International director Jonathan Bloomer, his wife Judy, and well-known American lawyer Chris Morvillo and his wife Neda Morvillo.

The bereaved, including Lynch's wife Angela Bacares, are left to cope with the devastating loss, while Cutfield is now under surveillance for his role in the incident. Although he is not in custody, he is barred from leaving Italy while the investigation continues.

Prosecutors are focusing on whether the crew's actions contributed to the rapid sinking, particularly the condition of the yacht's hatches and whether they were left ajar during the storm. This detail could explain the sudden capsizing of the yacht, which was declared “unsinkable” by its manufacturer, the Italian Sea Group. The company's CEO, Giovanni Costantino, has claimed that sailing vessels like the Bayesian are among the safest ships, which adds to the mystery of why the yacht sank so quickly.

Italian authorities are also investigating whether the ship's first officer was on the bridge at the time of the sinking and whether any attempts were made to alert passengers. Most of the victims were probably asleep when the storm hit and were unable to leave the rapidly sinking yacht. The discovery of five bodies in the same room suggests they may have been searching for an air pocket as the ship sank.

In the coming weeks, the rescue teams are expected to Bayesian as part of the ongoing investigation. Under Italian law, the ship's owner, in this case Bacares' company, bears the costs of salvaging and recovering the yacht. After salvage, the yacht will be examined to determine the exact circumstances of the sinking, including whether there was a black box on board and whether passengers were warned.

This tragic event has not only shocked the maritime community, but has also raised serious questions about the safety of luxury yachts and the responsibility of those who command them. As investigations continue, the world waits in anticipation to see if justice is served and if lessons can be learned from this devastating loss.