Superyacht Sinks off Sicily, Six People Including British Tech Tycoon Mike Lynch Missing

A frantic search and rescue operation is underway off the coast of Sicily after a superyacht capsized in the early hours of the morning, leaving six people, including British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch, unaccounted for. The yacht, owned by Lynch, was struck by a sudden tornado, causing it to sink rapidly just off the popular harbor of Porticello.

Eyewitness reports indicate that the yacht was anchored close to the port when the storm hit. The mast of the yacht reportedly broke under the severe weather conditions, leading to its capsizing. Angela Corrias, an Italian journalist, described the area as a bustling hotspot, especially during the high season, and stated that eyewitnesses had seen the yacht shortly before it vanished.

Fishermen in the area described the terrifying moment the yacht disappeared. One witness recounted watching the vessel sink with his own eyes, stating that it went under in a matter of minutes. "There were no men in the sea, so we immediately called the harbor master's office," he said.

The yacht was carrying 22 people at the time of the disaster. Fifteen have been rescued, including Lynch's wife, Angela Bacares, and a one-year-old child. However, the survivors are said to be deeply disturbed by the harrowing experience.

Local authorities have deployed an extensive search operation involving divers, motorboats, and helicopters. Cave divers from Napoli, Cagliari, and Sassari have been called in to assist in the search, as the wreck is believed to be lying 50 meters below the surface.

Mike Lynch, often dubbed the "British Bill Gates," recently made headlines after being acquitted in a high-profile US fraud case in June. He had faced 15 charges related to the sale of his software company, Autonomy, to Hewlett-Packard in 2011, but was cleared of all accusations.

Palermo's mayor, Roberto Lagalla, expressed his deep concern and offered prayers for those still missing. "My closeness goes to the passengers and crew members rescued. I also express my heartfelt thanks to the coastguard, firefighters, and the entire rescue team still carrying out operations," he stated.

The cause of the sudden tornado and the exact sequence of events leading to the yacht's capsizing remain under investigation as the search for the missing continues.