Italian prosecutors have opened an investigation into culpable shipwreck and multiple manslaughter after a superyacht, the Bayesian, capsized during a storm off the coast of Sicily, resulting in seven deaths. Among the victims were British tech magnate Mike Lynch and his daughter, Hannah Lynch.

Termini Imerese prosecutor Ambrogio Cartosio announced the investigation, stating that they are in the early stages and no suspects have been identified yet. The inquiry will explore various potential responsibilities, including those of the yacht’s captain, crew, and manufacturer, Perini Navi, which had marketed the yacht as “unsinkable.” Cartosio emphasized that while manslaughter charges are possible, a thorough investigation is required.

The sinking of the 56-meter (184-foot) Bayesian has raised questions due to its unexpected nature, particularly as a nearby sailboat weathered the storm with minimal damage. Initial reports suggested that the yacht may have been struck by a waterspout or a downburst, a powerful wind phenomenon, which led to its rapid descent.

A key focus of the investigation is why six passengers, including Lynch and his daughter, were unable to escape the hull, while most of the crew survived. Prosecutors noted that the victims were found on the yacht’s left side, near the surface, indicating they may have sought refuge in areas where air pockets formed.

The recovery of the yacht, now lying 50 meters below the surface, will be crucial for the investigation. However, this process is expected to be lengthy and complex. The costs will be covered by the yacht’s owners as authorities work to determine the exact cause of the tragedy.