Arrest Made Following Fatal North Sea Collision Involving Oil Tanker

A significant maritime incident occurred in the North Sea, leading to the arrest of a 59-year-old man suspected of gross negligence manslaughter after a collision between a container ship and an oil tanker. One crew member is presumed dead following the crash.

A 59-year-old man has been taken into custody on suspicion of manslaughter following a maritime collision in the North Sea that occurred on March 10, 2025. The incident involved the MV Solong, a container ship, which collided with the Stena Immaculate, an oil tanker that was anchored 13 nautical miles off the northeastern coast of England and managed by the U.S. Navy at the time.

The crash triggered a series of explosions, resulting in a fire that engulfed both vessels. Although the search for a missing crew member of the Solong was conducted, it was called off late on Monday night, with authorities stating that the individual is presumed dead. Fortunately, all other crew members from both ships were safely rescued and brought ashore.

The Humberside Police, along with the Coast Guard, has initiated a criminal investigation to determine the factors leading to the collision. Detective Chief Superintendent Craig Nicholson announced the arrest, confirming it is related to alleged gross negligence manslaughter tied to the maritime disaster. The exact relationship of the arrested individual to the ships remains unclear, as legal restrictions in Britain limit the details available following an arrest to safeguard the accused's rights.

Britain's Transport Minister, Mike Kane, provided insights in Parliament, attesting to the Stena Immaculate's anchored position and the specific circumstances surrounding the accident. An in-depth examination continues as authorities aim to piece together the events of that fateful morning in the North Sea.