An autopsy conducted at Palermo’s Institute of Forensic Medicine found no burns on the body of Robcornelis Maria Huijben Uiben, a 39-year-old Dutch diver. He died while working on the recovery of the Bayesian.
The superyacht Bayesian, owned by British magnate Mike Lynch, sank off Porticello’s coast on 19 August, killing seven people. The diver died whilst carrying out initial salvage operations on the boat.
Experts suggest the death may be linked to an explosion caused by a torch cutting through hydrogen pockets. The shock wave likely dislodged metal debris, which struck the diver, severing his oxygen tubes and camera cables. Some theories propose that the shock wave forced water into his suit and equipment.
Histological tests will determine if rapid ascent and decompression failure also contributed to his death. Uiben worked for a company involved in the superyacht’s recovery. His body has been returned to his family for funeral arrangements.
