Oil Tanker, Cargo Ship Collide Off England, Triggering Fiery Rescue Operation

A collision involving a U.S.-flagged oil tanker and a cargo ship occurred off the coast of eastern England in the North Sea on Monday. The incident resulted in both vessels catching fire, prompting a significant rescue operation, as reported by officials. At least 32 individuals were transported ashore, although the condition of some remained uncertain, according to Martyn Boyers, the chief executive of the Port of Grimsby East.

US-flagged oil tanker, cargo ship in North Sea collision off coast of England

Boyer revealed that 13 casualties were brought in on a Windcat 33 vessel, followed by another 19 on a harbor pilot boat. He mentioned witnessing a "massive fireball," although the flames were too distant to be seen from the port, being approximately 10 miles away. It was confirmed that the U.S.-flagged chemical and oil products carrier MV Stena Immaculate was one of the vessels involved, as stated by Stena Bulk CEO Erik Hanell. The other vessel was identified as the Portugal-flagged container ship Solong.

The U.S.-flagged tanker MV Stena Immaculate experienced a fire while at anchor after sailing from Greece, while the cargo vessel Solong was en route from Grangemouth in Scotland to Rotterdam in the Netherlands.

Rescue Operations

Multiple rescue operations were initiated following the collision. The U.S. Coast Guard agency reported that several lifeboats and a coast guard rescue helicopter were dispatched to the scene, along with a coast guard plane and nearby vessels equipped for firefighting. Reports indicated that the alarm was raised at 9:48 a.m. local time.

Response from Authorities

Britain's Maritime and Coastguard Agency confirmed that the emergency distress signal indicated a collision and subsequent fire on both ships. The Royal National Lifeboat Institution reported that three lifeboats were engaged in search and rescue operations alongside the coast guard.

Aftermath and Ship Details

Erik Hanell, Stena Bulk CEO, confirmed the safety and accounting of the crew of more than 20 people aboard the MV Stena Immaculate. However, it was deemed premature to speculate on the cause of the collision. The MV Stena Immaculate was identified as one of only ten oil tankers enlisted in a U.S. government program designed to supply armed forces with fuel during times of conflict or national emergency.

Incident Location and Future Developments

The site of the collision was identified off the coast of Hull, approximately 155 miles north of London. Investigations and inquiries were expected to take place in the aftermath of the incident.