USCG Investigation Continues One Year After OceanGate’s Titan Sub Implosion

Titan Submersible — Screengrab from YouTube video posted by Global News

One year after the tragic implosion of the experimental submersible Titan that killed five passengers, the US Coast Guard continued its thorough investigation into the cause of the tragedy.

The Coast Guard Marine Board of Investigation (MBI) is working with various organizations and stakeholders to better understand the facts surrounding the occurrence.

The MBI revealed plans to host public hearings from August to December, though specific dates have yet to be confirmed.

Capt. Jason Neubauer, Chair of the MBI, said they’re grateful for the international and interagency cooperation, which has been vital in recovering, preserving, and forensically testing evidence from a remote offshore region and extreme depth.

He highlighted the board’s commitment to determining the causes of the implosion to prevent similar events in the future.

On June 18, 2023, the commercially operated Titan submersible disappeared near the RMS Titanic wreck site in the North Atlantic, about 800 nautical miles off Cape Cod.

The submersible, carrying Stockton Rush (61), Hamish Harding (58), Paul-Henri Nargeolet (77), Shahzada Dawood (48), and his son Suleman Dawood (19), exploded unexpectedly, killing everyone on board.

Video Credits: Global News/YouTube

Four days later, the US Coast Guard, assisted by the anchor handler Horizon Arctic and a Pelagic Research Services ROV, discovered wreckage on the seafloor, as well as likely human remains.

Phoenix International’s vessel and ROV team conducted more recovery missions to collect more debris.

The MBI faces several challenges in this investigation, including the sub’s unusual carbon-fibre construction and jurisdictional complexities involving five agencies: the US Coast Guard, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the Canadian Coast Guard, the Canadian Transportation Safety Board (TSB), and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).

The United States Navy is also assisting with the site investigation.

The Coast Guard rejected a false transcript of Titan’s final voyage that emerged on social media in 2023.

Capt. Neubauer confirmed that he is confident it’s a false transcript, stating that it contradicts actual communications records from Titan’s mother ship, the Polar Prince.

Until the investigation is concluded, these legitimate logs will stay confidential.

Following the incident, OceanGate ceased all activities and deactivated its social media profiles.

As the inquiry continues, OceanGate’s future is unknown.

Capt. Neubauer stated that they are working closely with their domestic and international partners to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the incident.

The MBI’s commitment to finding the truth seeks to honor the victims’ memories and prevent such tragedies from occurring again.

The United States Coast Guard extends its heartfelt sympathies to the families and friends of the five people killed.

Reference: CBS News

Disclaimer :
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.

Do you have info to share with us ? Suggest a correction

About Author

Marine Insight News Network is a premier source for up-to-date, comprehensive, and insightful coverage of the maritime industry. Dedicated to offering the latest news, trends, and analyses in shipping, marine technology, regulations, and global maritime affairs, Marine Insight News Network prides itself on delivering accurate, engaging, and relevant information.