- The U.S. Coast Guard released the first public video of the OceanGate Titan wreckage a year after the submersible’s implosion in June 2023.
- The footage, shown at Marine Board of Investigation hearings, reveals the sub’s carbon hull imploded rapidly, likely without warning.
- Investigations focused on OceanGate’s CEO, Stockton Rush, who bypassed regulatory measures for the sub’s design and operation.
The U.S. Coast Guard has publicly released footage of the OceanGate Titan wreck, one year after the tragic implosion that claimed the lives of all five onboard during a dive to the Titanic wreck site in June 2023, reports Maritime Insight.
First Fatal Deep-Sea Submersible Incident in Over Fifty Years
The Titan incident marked the first fatal accident involving a deep-sea submersible in over half a century, underscoring the inherent dangers of deep-sea exploration.
The footage, captured by a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), shows the Titan’s stern tail section on the ocean floor. Debris nearby includes electronics, wiring, and carbon fiber hull parts, illustrating the devastation of the implosion.
Investigation Shows Rapid Implosion of Carbon Hull
The Coast Guard’s investigation revealed that the Titan’s experimental carbon hull likely imploded quickly, giving no prior warning. This tragic accident raised concerns about the safety of the vessel’s design.
The Marine Board of Investigation (MBI) hearings were convened to examine the causes of the accident and consider legal action. The video footage was used as evidence during these hearings.
The MBI hearings spotlighted OceanGate’s late CEO, Richard Stockton Rush III, who died in the implosion. His decisions regarding the design and safety measures for the Titan were scrutinized.
Bypassing Regulatory Requirements
Rush avoided regulatory requirements, such as obtaining a Coast Guard Certificate of Inspection (COI) and classification for the Titan, raising questions about the safety practices of the company.
Rush acknowledged the risks of the Titan’s design at a 2022 conference, stating that OceanGate was “pushing the envelope.” This mindset may have contributed to the tragedy.
Investigations Involve Four OceanGate Personnel
Four OceanGate personnel were questioned about the submersible’s design, construction, and operational practices. The focus was on understanding how these factors contributed to the fatal implosion.
The findings of the Marine Board of Investigation could lead to future legal action against OceanGate or individuals involved in the development and operation of the Titan.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Maritime Insight
