Former OceanGate Operations Director Details Troubled Past Mission, Clash with CEO

David Lochridge, former operations director for OceanGate, testified before Coast Guard investigators about a previous mission involving a clash with CEO Stockton Rush, highlighting concerns about the company's safety practices and the events leading to the tragic implosion of the Titan submersible.

Former OceanGate operations director David Lochridge took the stand before U.S. Coast Guard investigators on Tuesday, providing insights into a previous mission marred by conflict and system failures, raising further concerns about the company's safety protocols.

Lochridge, responsible for crew and pilot safety, highlighted an incident during a 2016 voyage to the Andrea Doria wreck site, where CEO Stockton Rush insisted on piloting the Cyclops 1 vessel despite Lochridge's reservations.

Former OceanGate Operations Director Details Troubled Past Mission, Clash with CEO

During this mission, Lochridge faced a series of system failures with the Cyclops 1, prompting him to question Rush's qualifications as a pilot. However, his concerns were met with resistance, leading to an incident where Rush crashed the vessel after refusing to relinquish control to Lochridge.

Lochridge's testimony further delved into his apprehensions about the Titan submersible, which imploded during a voyage to the Titanic wreck site in 2022, resulting in the deaths of all five individuals on board.

Former OceanGate Operations Director Details Troubled Past Mission, Clash with CEO

Citing a 2018 report that outlined various safety issues, Lochridge emphasized his refusal to approve manned tests of the Titan due to his concerns. His stance led to a lawsuit from OceanGate, alleging the disclosure of confidential information.

In a countersuit, Lochridge asserted that OceanGate had terminated his employment for raising safety concerns, referencing an inspection report that identified numerous issues posing significant safety risks.

Former OceanGate Operations Director Details Troubled Past Mission, Clash with CEO

Alongside Lochridge's account, former OceanGate finance and human resources director Bonnie Carl corroborated his assertions, characterizing the Titan as "unsafe."

Lochridge's testimony raised questions about the company's motivations, with his belief that "making money" and catering to wealthy paying passengers took precedence over scientific endeavors. He expressed discomfort with being portrayed as a "show pony" for the company's financial gain.

Former OceanGate Operations Director Details Troubled Past Mission, Clash with CEO

The hearing painted a picture of a company eager to launch its unconventional craft despite safety concerns, sparking a global debate about the future of private undersea exploration.

OceanGate, headquartered in Washington state, suspended operations after the Titan incident and has no full-time employees currently. However, the company maintains that it has fully cooperated with investigations.

Former OceanGate Operations Director Details Troubled Past Mission, Clash with CEO

The hearing continues, with proceedings expected to include multiple sessions and witness depositions due to the case's complexity. The absence of Rush's widow, Wendy Rush, from the hearing has raised questions, but the Coast Guard has declined to comment on the reasons for her absence.