London, March 12, 2025 – The Europe Today: British authorities have arrested the captain of a cargo vessel on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter following a fatal collision in the North Sea. The incident, which occurred on Monday, involved the Portuguese-flagged ship Solong and the anchored US tanker Stena Immaculate off the east coast of Yorkshire.
The Stena Immaculate, chartered by the US military, was carrying jet fuel when it was struck, triggering a massive fire and leaving one crew member missing, who has since been presumed dead.
Criminal Investigation Underway
Humberside Police confirmed on Tuesday that they had detained the 59-year-old captain of the Solong as part of an ongoing criminal investigation into the crash. The probe is being conducted in coordination with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.
Shipping firm Ernst Russ issued a statement acknowledging the captain’s detention, adding, “The master and our entire team are actively assisting with the investigations.”
Environmental Concerns and Recovery Efforts
The UK Coastguard has moved the Solong to a safer offshore position after initial concerns that it might not remain afloat. Meanwhile, Transport Minister Heidi Alexander stated on Tuesday that both vessels were stable and would not sink.
The Stena Immaculate remains at anchor under the supervision of safety tug boats. Officials reported that the fire has significantly diminished, with no visible flames remaining.
Crowley, the company managing the Stena Immaculate, noted that the extent of jet fuel spillage remains unclear. However, preliminary assessments suggest that much of the fuel may have evaporated due to the intense fire. British authorities have prepared equipment to mitigate potential environmental damage, including spray dispersants for oil spills and containment booms.
A one-kilometre exclusion zone has been established around both vessels as investigations and cleanup efforts continue.
