A Portuguese-flagged container ship, the Solong, collided with a U.S.-flagged oil tanker, the Stena Immaculate, while the latter was anchored in the North Sea near the eastern coast of England. The collision resulted in both vessels catching fire and suffering extensive damage, prompting their crews to abandon ship. Emergency services were immediately deployed, and efforts to contain the situation began. The incident took place around 10 a.m. UTC, approximately 10 miles off the coast of Hull, England.
Rescue Efforts Save 36, One Crew Member Missing as Fires and Leaks Persist
A total of 36 people from both ships were safely rescued, with one individual requiring hospital treatment, according to the U.K. Coast Guard. While all 23 crew members of the Stena Immaculate were accounted for, 13 of the 14 crew members from the Solong made it to safety. Unfortunately, one crew member from the Solong remains missing despite an extensive search. The U.K. Coast Guard confirmed that the search was eventually called off after failing to locate the individual.
Container Ship Collides With U.S. Tanker Off England’s Coast, Leaving One Missing and Fires RagingBoth vessels remained on fire following the collision, with Coast Guard aircraft monitoring the situation. At least one cargo tank on the Stena Immaculate ruptured, releasing Jet-A1 fuel and causing multiple explosions.
The tanker was carrying 220,000 barrels of jet fuel in 16 segregated tanks at the time of impact, raising concerns about potential fuel leakage. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency has begun assessing pollution risks, as conservation groups warn of potential harm to the Humber Estuary’s wildlife, including fish stocks, migratory birds, and Atlantic grey seals.
Investigation Underway as Authorities Assess Causes and Environmental Impact of Collision
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the collision. Port of Grimsby East CEO Martyn Boyers suggested that foggy conditions might have contributed to the accident. U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office acknowledged the seriousness of the situation but refrained from speculating on the cause.
The Marine Accident Investigation Branch dispatched a team to Grimsby to gather evidence and determine further actions. Meanwhile, Crowley, the operator of the Stena Immaculate, emphasized its commitment to safety and cooperation with authorities.
Efforts to contain the fire and mitigate environmental damage are ongoing, with helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft, lifeboats, and firefighting vessels involved in the response. The Stena Immaculate was on a routine fuel delivery for the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command when it was struck.
Emergency personnel continue to coordinate response measures, while conservation groups closely monitor potential ecological consequences. As investigations progress, authorities aim to prevent further risks and determine accountability for this catastrophic maritime incident.