Officials from HM Coastguard and the shipping companies involved in the North Sea incident reported that the situation aboard both vessels has stabilized and attention is now focused on salvage operations.
The fire on the oil tanker, Stena Immaculate, which collided with the cargo ship Solong has been extinguished. The fire was described as “very strong” but has now been contained. Solong’s owners reported that the vessel still emits smoke, with occasional flames observed.
Furthermore, UK investigators are continuing to gather information and are awaiting access to the data recorders aboard the two ships. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) is working with salvage companies on behalf of the vessels’ owners, in full cooperation with commercial and government partners. As reported, the main goal is to protect the public and the environment during the ongoing response.
There have been no further reports of pollution from either vessel, beyond the initial incident. To remind, the owner of the Solong cargo ship has confirmed that no sodium cyanide was aboard. In a statement, Ernst Russ, the ship’s owner, clarified that the hazardous chemical was not on board, contrary to earlier fears.
In the aftermath of the incident, one crew member of the cargo ship is now presumed deceased, according to Mike Kane, UK’s Minister for Aviation, Maritime, and Security,
In addition, environmental assessments have been positive, with no new pollution detected and air quality monitoring showing no toxins.
Several agencies, including the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board and U.S. Coast Guard, are conducting investigations. The UK’s Secretary of State’s Representative for Maritime Salvage and Intervention is coordinating efforts with vessel owners, salvors, and insurers.
In addition, the captain of the Solong has also been arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter in relation to the collision with Humberside Police confirming the arrest of the 59-year-old man.
Media in the UK has reported that the Solong was cited for several issues during Port State inspections in 2024. The vessel’s owners have responded, stating that the issues were resolved at the time of the inspections.
