In a tragic incident that has drawn significant attention, a coroner has confirmed that the inquest into the deaths of four individuals resulting from the sinking of the Bayesian yacht off the Sicilian coast will be delayed until criminal investigations are concluded.

This heartbreaking event occurred on August 19, claiming the lives of seven people, including British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch, aged 59, and his 18-year-old daughter Hannah, both residents of Suffolk. Joining them in this tragic loss were Jonathan Bloomer, the chairman of Morgan Stanley International, aged 70, and his wife Judy, aged 71, who hailed from Kent. The yacht sank in the tumultuous waters near the fishing village of Porticello, located east of Palermo, Italy, during a severe weather spell.

According to Suffolk senior coroner Nigel Parsley, two separate criminal investigations are currently underwayone in the UK and another in Italyto determine the circumstances surrounding this maritime disaster. The Bayesian, a sizable sailing vessel measuring 56 meters (approximately 184 feet), remains submerged on the seabed. Plans for its recovery were anticipated for May, although those efforts have yet to commence.

The preliminary inquest hearing, which was conducted in Ipswich in October, revealed that the yacht was situated approximately 0.8 nautical miles off Sicilys northern coast when the unexpected storm struck. A total of 15 people were able to escape via lifeboat, including a one-year-old child and Angela Bacares, the wife of Mike Lynch. Rescue efforts that followed involved a thorough search by divers, lasting several days, ultimately leading to the recovery of the bodies of the deceased. Tragically, Hannah Lynchs body was the last to be retrieved.

Mike and Hannah Lynch resided at the Loudham Hall estate, near Wickham Market. In contrast, Mr. and Mrs. Bloomer made their home near Sevenoaks. The other victims included U.S. lawyer Chris Morvillo, his wife Neda Morvillo, and the yachts chef, Recaldo Thomas, who originally hailed from Antigua. It is noteworthy that the Suffolk coroner's inquest is primarily focused on the British victims of this incident.

During the pre-inquest review held in Ipswich, Coroner Parsley remarked that very little evidence had been presented thus far and emphasized that no date for the full inquest would be set until the ongoing criminal investigations reach a conclusion. He anticipates that this forthcoming inquest will last between five to ten days, potentially longer if a jury becomes necessary. However, he also indicated a preference to proceed without a jury.

Mark Cam, the lead investigation officer from the UKs Maritime and Coastguard Agency, addressed the coroner during this recent hearing. He explained that the agency is currently scrutinizing potential breaches of maritime legislation. Parallel to this, Italian authorities are pursuing their own criminal inquiries, with considerations of charges akin to manslaughter. Cam noted that witness statements have been obtained, though further testimonies from crew members are still awaited. He pointed out the challenge in gathering interviews, as nearly all crew members do not reside in the UK, prolonging the investigation process. He stated that completing investigations on the vessel could take several months, emphasizing the necessity for the yacht to be made safe prior to recovery.

Simon Graves, principal inspector at the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB), informed the coroner that they aim to release an interim report within the next four to six weeks. This report is expected to shed light on the incident, while Graves clarified that the MAIBs investigation is distinct from the criminal inquiries, with a primary objective of enhancing maritime safety.