A lawsuit has been filed against OceanGate, the owner of the Titan submersible, following a tragic incident that resulted in the loss of five lives, including that of French explorer Paul-Henri Nargeolet. The lawsuit, seeking over $50 million in damages, claims gross negligence on the part of OceanGate and the crew for the “terror and mental anguish” experienced before the sub imploded. Legal experts suggest that while the family of Nargeolet may receive some compensation, the likelihood of winning the full amount is slim, especially since OceanGate has ceased operations.
The lawsuit filed by Nargeolet’s estate in King County, Washington, points to the emotional and mental distress endured by the passengers onboard the Titan, alleging that they were aware of their impending fate. However, proving the extent of suffering before the implosion and subsequent deaths occurred could present challenges in court. Richard Daynard, a law professor, noted that establishing negligence might be possible but does not guarantee a significant financial outcome.
The Titan, which met its tragic end during a dive to the Titanic wreck site, caught international attention when it lost contact with the support vessel and was later discovered on the ocean floor. The fatality included OceanGate CEO, Stockton Rush, and prominent individuals such as British adventurer Hamish Harding and members of a Pakistani family. The lawsuit against OceanGate may face hurdles due to the company’s limited assets, leaving the family in a difficult legal position.
Despite being a revered figure in undersea exploration, Nargeolet’s untimely death has prompted legal action against OceanGate, with experts suggesting that the lawsuit could be a last-ditch effort for accountability and compensation. As investigations into the Titan’s implosion continue, a crucial public hearing is scheduled for September as part of the ongoing inquiry into the tragic incident.
