"They might have split up or they might have capsized
They may have broke deep and took water"-Gordon Lightfoot, 1976
They may have broke deep and took water"-Gordon Lightfoot, 1976
For each fact that is known, there are twice as many unknowns and theories as to what caused the fall of the Mighty Fitz. Each theory is proven by some aspects of the wreck, and disproven by others. Such theories include:
- Improperly attached hatch covers. This is the Coast Guard theory that states that hatch covers weren’t properly tightened, leading to large amounts of leakage into the cargo holds. Proven by: Some combings undamaged while others torn apart. Disproven by: The crew’s experience and knowledge of an upcoming storm.
- Grounded on Six Fathom Shoal. This theory is the thought that the Fitzgerald hit the bottom near Caribou Island, ripping a hole in the ship. Proven by: Large holes, Anderson’s captain's concern for how close the Fitzgerald was to the shoal, inaccurate charts. Disproven by: Captain's experience in the area, ballast tank location
- Rogue waves. This theory states that 2+ large waves swept over the stern of the Fitzgerald, forcing her cargo to shift, and her bow to nosedive. Proven by: bottom disruption, lack of distress signal. Disproven by: Scattering of wreckage, required size of such waves.
- Any combination of the above three, or something completely unknown.