Tue Mar 11 17:49:53 UTC 2025: ## North Sea Collision Leaves One Sailor Presumed Dead, Man Arrested
**Grimsby, UK** – A 59-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter following a collision between a Portuguese cargo ship and a US tanker in the North Sea, resulting in one death and a significant environmental risk.
The incident, which occurred Monday, involved the cargo vessel *Solong* and the US-flagged oil tanker *Stena Immaculate*. The collision caused an explosion and fire on both vessels. While 36 crew members were rescued safely and brought ashore in Grimsby, one crew member from the *Solong* is presumed dead.
Humberside Police confirmed the arrest and stated they are leading the investigation into potential criminal offences. Detective Chief Superintendent Craig Nicholson emphasized the ongoing work to understand the circumstances of the crash and support those affected. While initial reports suggested no foul play, the investigation continues.
The *Stena Immaculate*, operating under the US government’s Tanker Security Program, was carrying 220,000 barrels of Jet-A1 fuel, some of which spilled following the collision. This poses a significant threat to the surrounding marine environment, home to large populations of protected seabirds and fish. While initial fears that the *Solong* was carrying sodium cyanide proved unfounded, four empty containers that previously held the chemical are being monitored.
The *Solong*, still alight but drifting away from the *Stena Immaculate*, remains a concern. A half-mile exclusion zone has been established around both vessels. Authorities and vessel operators have yet to explain the cause of the collision or the apparent failure of safety systems. Greenpeace UK has expressed serious concerns about the environmental impact. The condition of the *Solong* is precarious, with officials stating it is unlikely to remain afloat.
First Piper 