Two bodies have been found off the coast of Sicily at the site of the sinking of the yacht Bayesian, multiple reports confirm. The yacht capsized in severe storms off the port of Porticello on Monday, triggering a massive search for survivors. Among those missing are British software tycoon Mike Lynch and his teenage daughter Hannah. No identities of the recovered bodies have been disclosed at this stage.
Divers from the local fire service were spotted entering the water with torches attached to their headgear at the shipwreck site on Wednesday afternoon. A police boat and additional divers also joined in the search efforts before returning to the nearby port, with a helicopter providing aerial support.
Several boats departed from the port of Porticello to head towards the sinking site in a coordinated effort shortly before 3.30 pm on Wednesday. Earlier in the day, a team of four British inspectors from the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) arrived in Porticello to investigate the incident. The MAIB’s involvement is due to the yacht flying a British flag.
While the MAIB is not directly engaged in the search for missing persons, the Italian Coastguard clarified that they are leading search operations. Spokesperson Vincenzo Zagarola stated that although the MAIB could provide support, the primary responsibility lies with Italian authorities. The tragic events surrounding the yacht Bayesian’s sinking continue to unfold as rescue efforts persist.