A search is underway for missing Brits after a superyacht sank off the coast of Sicily overnight.

As many as 22 were on board when the Bayesian got into trouble after it was hit by a tornado near Palermo, with eight still missing as of earlier this morning. The wreck was found 163 feet (50m) down.

Initial reports said four Brits, a Canadian and two Americans were among those missing, alongside one crew member who is a cook. The vessel went down near the fishing village of Porticello. An investigation is being carried out by the local Port Authority.

The body of one man was reportedly discovered by rescuers later on Monday morning (August 19), according to Blog Sicilia. A baby, along with its mother, was reportedly among those rescued and taken to hospital, according to Italian news outlet Corriere.

A witness who was one of the last people to see the ship said those missing are feared to be trapped inside the hull.

They said: “The yacht on the left sunk at 4.05am, caught in the middle of the hurricane 300 meters from the port of Porticello, next to another sailboat that provided rescue. It looks like there are 22 on board but unfortunately, seven missing, they’re afraid they’re inside the hull. Unbelievable tragedy tonight. I’m out of words.”

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