Developments are rapidly unfolding in the case of the catastrophic collision between two ships in the North Sea. On March 11, 2025, law enforcement authorities arrested a 59-year-old man suspected of negligence leading to manslaughter. The Humber Police in the UK announced that they have initiated a criminal investigation in collaboration with the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency. As part of this investigation, a 59-year-old man remains in custody as a suspect in connection with yesterday’s (March 10, 2025) collision between two vessels off the east coast of Yorkshire.
The tanker Stena Immaculate collided early Monday morning with the cargo ship MV Solong, causing both ships to catch fire. The coastguard reported that 36 people were evacuated to shore, with one requiring hospitalization. Unfortunately, one crew member is presumed dead after search and rescue operations concluded.
Meanwhile, the UK Department for Transport states that authorities are working to extinguish the fire on the MV Solong, as fumes and smoke pose significant risks to personnel and equipment in the area. If the fire can be put out, the next step will involve safely towing the vessel to port if weather conditions allow. However, there is concern that the MV Solong may sink, potentially causing a major ecological disaster.
On the other hand, the Stena Immaculate, due to its specialized design and construction, may avoid sinking despite sustaining damage.