SURVIVORS OF BELIZE DIVING ACCIDENT SETTLE CLAIMS

Families and survivors of an 8 October 2002 capsizing in Belize that resulted in the deaths of 17 recreational divers and three crewmembers have settled claims for several thousand dollars to several hundred thousand dollars.

The 120 foot Wave Dancer capsized during Hurricane Iris.

The settlements were hindered by a complex global search for assets of the diving firm, Peter Hughes Diving Inc.

While the total payouts were well over $17 million, there is only about $4 million left from the Lloyd's of London insurance policy on the Wave Dancer operation. Payments will be made based on pro-rata percentages.

An investigation into the disaster by the International Merchant Marine Registry of Belize has not been completed.

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