Investigation continues into deadly maritime accident near Split

A day after the body of the fourth victim was recovered from the sunken sailboat in the Gates of Split, the investigation into the deadly maritime accident continues. 

Witnesses have been questioned, footage reviewed, and toxicology tests ordered, while the complex operation to recover the vessel from the seabed is being planned.

Determining the exact cause of the accident — and any potential liability — could take months.

Although there is still no official information about what caused the collision between the islands of Brač and Šolta, in an area commonly known as the Gates of Split, authorities say the investigation is continuing intensively on several fronts.

The safety investigation is being led by the Agency for the Investigation of Accidents in Air, Maritime and Railway Transport, while the criminal investigation is being conducted by the County State Attorney’s Office.

So far, investigators have questioned a large number of witnesses, reviewed numerous recordings and ordered toxicological tests for the individuals who were, or should have been, operating the vessels at the time of the accident.

According to HRT, Czech investigators could also become involved, potentially giving the investigation an international dimension, as the victims were Czech nationals.

One of the key priorities for investigators remains an inspection of the sunken sailboat itself. However, that will only be possible after the vessel is recovered from the seabed.

The sailboat remains at a depth of around 50 meters. Preparatory work for its recovery began yesterday, but authorities say the operation is technically demanding and likely to take time.