The captain of Mike Lynch’s yacht, James Cutfield, was flown out of Palermo on Thursday in a private jet, with the flight’s destination remaining unknown according to investigative sources.
Cutfield had been brought in for questioning on Tuesday regarding the cause of the yacht’s sinking, but according to reports from his lawyer, he did not respond to the questions posed during the interrogation. This lack of cooperation has raised skepticism, particularly as Cutfield’s sudden departure from the Sicilian capital during an ongoing investigation has fueled speculation about whether he is attempting to avoid further scrutiny.
Departure Raises Questions
Cutfield, a New Zealander who resides with his wife in Palma on the Spanish island of Mallorca, left Palermo amidst an investigation into the tragic sinking of the yacht that resulted in the death of British tech tycoon Mike Lynch and six others. The vessel sank off the coast of Sicily, and the circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear. While being under investigation does not imply guilt or guarantee formal charges, Cutfield’s recent actions, particularly his abrupt departure from Italy, have raised suspicions.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Obligations
Despite the suspicion surrounding Cutfield’s actions, it is important to note that individuals under investigation in Italy are not obligated to remain in the country. They are, however, required to appoint lawyers to ensure that authorities can maintain contact with them. Cutfield’s decision to leave Italy just days after the investigation began has drawn attention, but it does not necessarily indicate wrongdoing.
Manslaughter and Shipwreck Charges
Earlier this week, James Cutfield was officially placed under investigation for manslaughter and shipwreck. He declined to answer questions from prosecutors on Tuesday. Additionally, two other crew members were placed under investigation on Wednesday, further complicating the case.
Mystery of the Sinking
The British-flagged yacht, the Bayesian, a 56-meter-long (184-foot) vessel, capsized and sank on August 19, within minutes of being struck by a pre-dawn storm while anchored off northern Sicily.
The incident has puzzled naval marine experts, who have pointed out that a vessel like the Bayesian, built by the renowned Italian yacht manufacturer Perini, should have withstood the storm.
Moreover, experts have expressed surprise at the speed with which the yacht sank, raising further questions about the events leading up to the tragedy.
