During a recent hearing at the US Coast Guard Marine Board of Investigation, former OceanGate employee Matthew McCoy testified about a concerning conversation he had with OceanGate CEO Stockton Rush in September 2017. McCoy revealed that Rush had mentioned the possibility of buying a congressman to resolve any issues with the US Coast Guard ahead of the Titan expedition. This statement left McCoy shocked and ultimately led to his resignation from the company.
McCoy, who had raised safety and regulatory concerns about the expedition, expressed his disbelief at Rush's approach to potential obstacles. Rush's reported lack of concern for proper procedures and regulations was further highlighted by McCoy's revelation that OceanGate had not made plans to certify or register the Titan submersible.
Additionally, McCoy pointed out the absence of professional engineers or a safety officer within OceanGate's team. He also noted the lack of a formal system for addressing employee complaints or concerns, painting a picture of a company operating without essential safety protocols in place.
McCoy's testimony shed light on Rush's temperament, describing him as defensive and quick to anger when faced with pointed questions. This behavior raised doubts about Rush's suitability for overseeing such high-stakes operations.
The hearing also touched upon the tragic incident involving Rush and several others on the Titan submersible. Rush, along with businessman Hamish Harding, French diver Paul-Henri Nargeolet, and businessman Shahzada Dawood and his son, lost their lives in the accident.
