Italian divers have retrieved the body of 18-year-old Hannah Lynch, the last person unaccounted for after the luxury yacht owned by her family sank off Sicily earlier this week. The 56-meter-long yacht, the Bayesian, capsized during a severe pre-dawn storm on Monday near Porticello, close to Palermo. The incident claimed the lives of seven people, including Hannah’s father, British tech magnate Mike Lynch.
Fifteen survivors were rescued, including Lynch’s wife, who owned the yacht, and the captain. The recovery operation concluded with Hannah Lynch’s body being found on Friday. The five other deceased passengers were recovered on Wednesday and Thursday, and onboard chef Recaldo Thomas was found on Monday.
The Termini Imerese public prosecutor’s office, led by Ambrogio Cartosio, is investigating potential charges of negligent shipwreck and multiple homicide. The yacht’s captain, James Cutfield, and other survivors have been questioned by the coast guard, though no formal investigations have been initiated yet. Cartosio is expected to hold a news conference on Saturday.
In response to the tragedy, the Lynch family expressed their devastation and gratitude towards the Italian coastguard and emergency services. They are being supported by family and friends during this difficult time.
The fire brigade reported that their team of over 40 specialists conducted 123 dives to inspect the submerged Bayesian, which remains intact on its side at a depth of 50 meters. Naval experts are puzzled by the sinking, noting that the yacht, built by high-end manufacturer Perini, should have been able to endure the storm and remain afloat longer.
