Feds seize evidence in fatal boat fire probe

Authorities have recovered a trove of information as they build a possible criminal case against a scuba diving boat company whose vessel caught fire and sank off the Southern California coast, killing 34 people.

A law enforcement official with knowledge of the evidence collected under search warrants in Santa Barbara told The Associated Press that electronics, employee and training records, and business documents were seized. The official said authorities also collected records listing previous patrons of Truth Aquatics Inc. and that investigators plan to interview them regarding safety protocols during their trips.

The source wasn’t authorized to speak publicly and commented on the condition of anonymity.

Federal agents raided the office of Truth Aquatics and its two remaining vessels on Sunday. Investigators want to know if the captain and boat owners followed safety requirements.