The company’s chief engineer, Fernando San Diego San Juan, was separately fined $2,000 after pleading guilty to failing to report the hazardous condition and obstructing the investigation. Once the linkage rod disconnected, the main engine could not be slowed and the ship continued at around 16-17 knots. After hiring a lawyer, San Diego San Juan began cooperating with investigators. Other problems were found before the incidentSan Diego San Juan joined the MSC Michigan VII as chief engineer in April 2024. San Diego San Juan was also aware that most of the ship’s generators could not maintain 75% power.