Have to agree with Brian and desertrefugee. Commanding Officers are always on call especially in restricted waters and shipping lanes. There is generally a specific limit/distance at which the CO is called, and with the liability for US Commanding Officers, I would expect that there are rigorous requirements set forth in ship's standing orders. From looking at the pictures, this ship was in the wrong place at the wrong time. The unfortunate issue is the possible loss of life that is never acceptable.
As for hacking into the ship's system(s), it is a great conspiracy theory, but these ships as are ours are some of the most sophisticated on the planet. The lengths to which our designers/developers go to to ensure that systems cannot be compromised is significant. I would submit that the issue is somewhat closer to home.
Just MHO.
Regards
Ernest Nash LCdr (ret'd)
CDN Navy 1973-1998
Marine Systems Engineering Officer