WASHINGTON: The US Coast Guard has initiated an investigation to determine the factors that led to the underwater implosion of a tourist submersible, resulting in the tragic deaths of all five individuals on board during a dive to explore the century-old wreckage of the Titanic. The announcement follows the Canadian Transportation Safety Board’s independent inquiry into the incident, raising concerns about the unregulated nature of such expeditions.
Captain Jason Neubauer, the Coast Guard’s chief investigator, expressed his primary objective of preventing a recurrence of such an event by issuing necessary recommendations to enhance maritime safety globally. During a press conference in Boston, Neubauer disclosed that the Coast Guard had launched a marine board investigation on Friday. Collaborating with the FBI, they are currently engaged in a salvage operation at the debris site on the seabed, approximately 1,600 feet (488 meters) from the bow of the Titanic wreck, located about 2-1/2 miles (4 km) below the surface, in order to recover evidence.
The findings of the investigation will be shared with the International Maritime Organization and other relevant organizations to improve the safety framework for submersible operations worldwide, Neubauer stated. He also assured that the Coast Guard is in contact with the families of the deceased and that all precautions are being taken on-site to handle any potential encounters with human remains.
Tragic Loss of Submersible
The tragic loss of the submersible, named Titan, was confirmed by US authorities after it disappeared during a dive to the Titanic wreckage site nearly a week ago. The incident was described as a “catastrophic implosion,” resulting in the violent inward collapse of the vessel. While some details have been established, many questions surrounding the event remain unanswered, prompting calls for a comprehensive investigation.
US Coast Guard Rear Admiral John Mauger expressed uncertainty regarding the possibility of locating the bodies of the five victims. He cited the deep and perilous underwater environment as an immensely challenging factor in the search efforts.
Among those on board were wealthy British businessmen Hamish Harding and Shahzada Dawood, accompanied by Dawood’s son Suleman. OceanGate CEO Stockton Rush and former French navy diver Paul-Henry Nargeolet were also part of the crew. The families of the deceased are rightfully seeking answers and closure in the face of this tragic situation.
