The search for a missing crew member has been called off after an oil tanker loaded with jet fuel and a cargo ship carrying toxic chemicals crashed in the North Sea yesterday.
In a statement issued last night, Monday 10 March, HM Coastguard confirmed that the missing person had not been located despite an “extensive search” that began around 10AM.
The remaining 36 seafarers involved in the collision have been accounted for.
Matthew Atkinson, divisional commander for HM Coastguard, said: “Thirty-six crew members were taken safely to shore, one person was taken to hospital.
“One crew member of the Solong remains unaccounted for. After an extensive search for the missing crew member, sadly they have not been found and the search has ended.
“The two vessels remain on fire and coastguard aircraft are monitoring the situation. An assessment of any required counter pollution response is being carried out by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.”
It is understood that the Stena Immaculate was struck by the Solong while anchored, triggering “multiple explosions” and a fireball. The tanker was carrying jet fuel for the US military, while the cargo ship was loaded with sodium cyanide — a chemical that can release toxic gas when it comes into contact with water. It remains unclear whether any of the chemical has leaked.
What remains of the vessels is believed to still be burning in the North Sea. Authorities have ordered vessels to remain in port along the East Yorkshire and Lincolnshire coast as a precaution.
An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision is now underway.
(Image: Bartek Smiatek)
Part of the Gi Grimsby News team since 2020.