Prominent NYC Attorney and Wife Missing After Yacht Sinks in Sicily

NYC Attorney and Wife Missing After Yacht Sinks in Sicily

Prominent New York City attorney Christopher Morvillo and his wife, Neda Morvillo, are among those missing after the yacht they were on sank off the coast of Sicily this week. The yacht, the Bayesian, was carrying 22 people, including 12 passengers and 10 crew, when it capsized during a severe storm early on Monday, August 19th.

While search efforts continue, investigators fear the missing are dead after becoming trapped in the sinking vessel. Fifteen people were rescued, and one body was recovered and identified as the yacht's chef, Ricardo Thomas.

A Celebratory Trip Turned Tragic

A source close to the survivors revealed that the trip was a celebratory one following the acquittal of British businessman Mike Lynch in a financial fraud trial. Lynch, who was represented by Morvillo, is also missing along with his daughter, Hannah. His wife, Angela Bacares, was among those rescued.

Clifford Chance Law Firm Mourns the Loss

Clifford Chance, Morvillo's law firm, released a statement expressing their shock and sadness, offering their condolences to the families of those missing. The firm also confirmed that other employees were on board the Bayesian.

A Distinguished Legal Career

Morvillo's biography on the Clifford Chance website details a distinguished legal career. He previously worked as a federal prosecutor and was involved in the investigation of the September 11th terrorist attacks.

His wife, Neda, is a fine jewelry designer, according to news reports.

The families of the missing are requesting privacy during this difficult time.