Deadly Ship Collision Sparks Fires and Environmental Concerns

March 11, 2025

Fires continue to burn aboard an oil tanker carrying jet fuel and a cargo ship transporting hazardous chemicals following a collision in the North Sea on Monday morning. Authorities have halted the search for a missing crew member after conducting an extensive operation, according to HM Coastguard.

The incident involved the Stena Immaculate, a US-registered vessel transporting fuel for the US military, and the Portuguese-flagged Solong. Matthew Atkinson, Divisional Commander for the Coastguard, reported that 36 individuals had been rescued, with one person taken to the hospital. The missing crew member was aboard the Solong.

A crew member from the oil tanker described the collision, stating that the Solong appeared unexpectedly and struck the Stena Immaculate at a speed of 16 knots. Crew members swiftly evacuated to life rafts.

Authorities are assessing potential environmental damage after confirming that some jet fuel leaked into the sea near the Humber Estuary. Maritime company Crowley, which manages the Stena Immaculate, disclosed that the vessel experienced multiple explosions due to a ruptured cargo tank.

Emergency response teams, including a Coastguard rescue helicopter, four lifeboats, and nearby firefighting vessels, were dispatched to the scene. Michael Paterson, Managing Director of marine services company Svitzer, reported that his team deployed four boats to battle the flames. He highlighted the dangers of oil and jet fuel, which are highly flammable and emit toxic fumes.

The Marine Accident Investigation Branch has begun gathering evidence and conducting a preliminary assessment. Commander Atkinson stated that the Maritime and Coastguard Agency is evaluating counter-pollution measures, while the Secretary of State’s Representative for Maritime Salvage and Intervention is coordinating efforts with salvors and insurers.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander commended the rapid response of the coastguard and emergency services, emphasizing their efforts in rescuing those in danger.

At the time of the collision, the Solong was transporting 15 containers of sodium cyanide, a toxic chemical used in metal plating and dye production. Authorities have not confirmed whether any sodium cyanide has leaked into the sea. However, if mixed with water, it could produce hydrogen cyanide gas, posing a risk to rescue personnel, according to Professor Alastair Hay of Leeds University.

Environmental group Greenpeace expressed serious concern over the potential ecological impact of the collision. Downing Street described the situation as deeply concerning and stated that investigations into the cause are ongoing.

The Humber Estuary remains closed to all traffic, with ferry departure schedules from Hull and Rotterdam still uncertain as of Monday evening.