Antiguan identified as sole fatality in Sicily yacht sinking

A yacht disaster off the coast of Sicily has resulted in the confirmed death of Antiguan chef Recaldo Thomas.

The tragedy unfolded in the early hours of Monday morning when the 56-meter British-flagged sailboat Bayesian, carrying 22 people, was struck by a tornado near the port of Porticello.

Thomas, who was born in Canada to Antiguan parents, was among those on board the ill-fated vessel. 

He is the sole confirmed fatality from the accident. 

Six people remain missing, while 15 others were rescued.

The rescued individuals are reported to be of British, American, and Canadian nationality.

The Italian coastguard provided an initial statement, confirming that the Bayesian was anchored just off the shore when it was hit by the powerful tornado in the early morning hours. 

The search and rescue operation is ongoing as authorities work to locate the missing persons.