While we wait for a verdict at the trial stemming from the Queen of the North sinking, we can tell you some information kept from the 12 jurors who are now deliberating in isolation.
Five years ago, investigators with the Transportation Safety Board blamed human error for the ferry running aground and sinking in March 2006.
The report, made public in 2008, concluded that navigation officer Karl Lilgert failed to keep the ship on course because he was distracted by a “personal conversation” with his former lover and co-worker, Karen Briker.
Both their statements to the TSB are considered confidential, but the review also confirmed basic safety protocols were not followed.
Reports of crew members smoking pot on – and off – shift were also investigated, but there was no evidence that any ferry workers were impaired that night.
The 59-year-old Lilgert is charged with criminal negligence causing the deaths of two passengers who are presumed drowned.