PALERMO: A violent storm led to the sinking of a luxury yacht off the coast of Palermo on Monday, resulting in one death and leaving six individuals missing, the Italian coast guard reported. The 56-meter (184-foot) British-registered sailboat, named Bayesian, sank with 22 people on board shortly before sunrise.
Among the missing are British, American, and Canadian nationals. The 15 people rescued, including a one-year-old child, were transferred to local hospitals, where they are reported to be in stable condition.
The storm, which brought strong winds and heavy rainfall, was more severe than anticipated. Local authorities have reported that recent storms and flooding have caused significant damage across northern Italy following a period of extreme heat.
Karsten Borner, captain of a nearby boat, recounted how his crew managed to avoid a collision with the sinking yacht by keeping their vessel in position during the storm. After the weather cleared, they discovered some survivors on a life raft, including three seriously injured individuals, whom they rescued until the coast guard arrived.
The yacht was found submerged at a depth of 49 meters, and divers are currently inspecting the wreck. The Italian town of Termini Imerese has opened an investigation into the incident.
British entrepreneur Mike Lynch is among those missing. Lynch’s wife, Angela Bacares, who owns the yacht, and their one-year-old daughter were among the survivors. The deceased has been identified as the yacht’s Canadian chef. British officials are in contact with local authorities and are prepared to offer consular support to affected Britons.
