US Coast Guard Rear Admiral* John Mauger, a 1987 graduate of Jenkintown High School, has been leading the search for the imploded Titan submersible, which went missing on Sunday with five people on board.

The vessel suffered a “catastrophic implosion,” killing everyone on board, Mauger said during a press conference on Thursday. He also announced the discovery of debris belonging to the Titan.

“In consultation with experts from within the unified command, the debris is consistent with the catastrophic loss of the pressure chamber. Upon this determination, we immediately notified the family,” Mauger said. “On behalf of the U.S. Coast Guard and the entire unified command, I offer my deepest condolences to the families. I can only imagine what this has been like for them, and I can only help that this discovery can provide some solace during this deeply difficult time.”

The U.S. Coast Guard has declared the loss of the Titan submersible to be a major marine casualty and will lead the investigation. The NTSB has joined the investigation and will contribute to their efforts. The USCG is handling all media inquiries related to this investigation.

— NTSB Newsroom (@NTSB_Newsroom) June 23, 2023

For Mauger’s press briefing about the discovery of debris belonging to the 21-ft submersible, you can watch this video courtesy of Petty Officer 2nd Class Ronald Hodges, U.S. Coast Guard District 1:

For extensive coverage about the Titan, you can read CNN’s article here.

About Rear Admiral Mauger

Mauger assumed the duties of Commander, First Coast Guard District in May 2022. He oversees all Coast Guard missions across eight states in the Northeast including over 2,000 miles of coastline from the U.S.-Canadian border to northern New Jersey and 1300 miles offshore.

Rear Admiral Mauger previously served as the Assistant Commandant for Prevention Policy, responsible for the development of national policy, standards, and programs promoting Marine Safety, Security and Environmental Stewardship.

He resides in Wellesley, Massachusetts with his wife, Leah, and two children. For more on Mauger, you can read his U.S. Office of Homeland Security biography here.

*Rear admiral is a senior naval flag officer rank, equivalent to a major general and air vice marshal and above that of a commodore and captain, but below that of a vice admiral.

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Photo/Screengrab courtesy of the US Coast Guard