A Russian ship captain now faces manslaughter charges after his cargo vessel collided with a U.S. military fuel tanker off England’s coast. Questions swirl about how a ship with known steering issues rammed into a stationary American tanker carrying thousands of tons of jet fuel.
At a glance:
• Russian captain, 59, arrested on suspicion of manslaughter by gross negligence after cargo ship Solong collided with U.S. military fuel tanker
• Solong had previously failed safety checks for steering issues but was allowed to continue operations
• One sailor from Solong missing and presumed dead; 36 crew members safely rescued
• Collision caused jet fuel spill with potential environmental impact to marine life
• Stena Immaculate was part of U.S. government’s Tanker Security Program, transporting military jet fuel
Russian Captain Arrested After Ramming U.S. Military Tanker
British authorities have arrested a 59-year-old Russian captain of the cargo ship Solong following a catastrophic collision with a stationary American tanker in the North Sea. The captain faces charges of manslaughter by gross negligence after ramming into the MV Stena Immaculate, a vessel carrying jet fuel for the U.S. military.
The dramatic crash resulted in an explosion and fire on both vessels, with flames still visible on the Solong. Records show the Solong had previously failed safety inspections for steering problems and other deficiencies but was never detained despite these issues.
One sailor from the Solong is missing and presumed dead following the collision, while the remaining 36 crew members were safely evacuated. The Stena Immaculate is American-flagged, operated by Crowley Government Solutions, and crewed entirely by Americans as part of the strategic Tanker Security Program.
Environmental Concerns Following Military Fuel Spill
The collision resulted in jet fuel spilling into the North Sea, raising immediate concerns about environmental damage to marine life and coastal bird populations. The incident occurred near sensitive nature sites, compounding worries about the potential ecological impact.
Local authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, with Britain’s Hull City Council leader warning the collision still has the potential to become an environmental disaster. Salvage plans are being developed for both vessels, with extinguishing the Solong’s persistent fire being the top priority for emergency responders.
The Stena Immaculate’s role in the U.S. government’s Tanker Security Program has raised questions about the timing and circumstances of the crash, too. According to the American Maritime Officers’ Union, vessels in this program “can readily transport liquid fuel supplies in times of need for the DOD.”
Despite the sensitive military connection and the Russian nationality of the detained captain, British officials have downplayed security concerns.