Collision in North Sea Between Cargo Ship and Tanker Triggers Fire and Environmental Concerns

A Russian captain has been detained as investigations continue into the crash that caused significant damage and a fuel spill off the Yorkshire coast.

The cargo ship Solong collided with the U.S.-affiliated tanker Stena Immaculate on March 10, 2025, approximately 16 kilometers off the Yorkshire coast, leading to a massive fire on both vessels.
One crew member from the Solong is presumed dead, while 36 others from both ships were safely evacuated; 32 individuals sustained injuries but were rescued promptly.
The Stena Immaculate, carrying 220,000 barrels of aviation fuel (Jet-A1), suffered a breach in one of its tanks, causing a fuel spill; however, experts suggest the risk of a major marine oil spill is low due to the fuel's volatile nature.
The captain of the Solong, a 59-year-old Russian national, has been arrested by British authorities on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter, with investigations ongoing to determine the cause of the collision.
Environmental concerns persist, particularly for marine life and bird colonies near the Humber estuary, though no significant pollution has been observed at this time.