The US Coast Guard (USCG) has confirmed the OceanGate Expeditions submersible Titan has been destroyed after a debris field was discovered by a remote-operated vessel (ROV) Thursday afternoon.
The five passengers on board, Stockton Rush, Paul-Henri Nargeolet, Hamish Harding, and father-and-son tandem Shahzada and Suleman Dawood, have likely died.
In a press conference that just ended as of this report, USCG Northeast District commander Rear Adm. John Mauger stated the debris found at the sea floor was "consistent with a catastrophic implosion of the vessel."
When asked if it was possible the sub collided with the Titanic, he said the debris was found off the bow of the Titanic.
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution's Carl Hartsfield said the data was consistent with an implosion in the water column.
"It's in an area where there's not any debris of the Titanic, it is a smooth bottom," he said. "To my knowledge...there's no Titanic wreckage in that area and again 200 plus meters from the bow, and consistent with the location of last communication for an implosion in the water column."
Investigations on what caused the suspected implosion are continuing.
Read Also: Inside the Titan Submersible: Single Porthole Offers a Glimpse of the Deep
OceanGate Confirms the Loss of the Vessel and Crew
Before the press conference, OceanGate released a statement confirming the loss of the Titan and her crew. While they mourn the loss of the company's CEO, Stockton Rush, they appreciate the commitment to finding the sub and passengers.
"These men were true explorers who shared a distinct spirit of adventure and a deep passion for exploring and protecting the world's oceans," the statement read. "Our hearts are with these five souls and every member of their families during this tragic time. We grieve the loss of life and joy they brought to everyone they knew."
In addition, OceanGate "respectfully [asked]" to honor the privacy of the families of the deceased at this time.
This is a developing story. Please check back on HNGN later for more updates.
Related Article: OceanGate Titan: US Coast Guard Says 'Debris Field' Found Near Titanic Wreck Site
