North Sea collision: man arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter
A 59-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter in connection with the shipping collision in the North Sea.
Humberside police said they had opened a criminal investigation into the collision, in which one seaman is believed to have died.
The cargo ship, Solong, collided with the Stena Immaculate oil tanker off the coast of Yorkshire on Monday morning, causing a huge explosion and raising fears of environmental disaster.
The Stena Immaculate was carrying 220,000 barrels of jet fuel for the US air force when it was struck while stationary. At least one of the barrels is leaking into the North Sea.
The Marine Accident Investigation Branch is undertaking a parallel preliminary assessment to establish the causes of the collision.
Det Ch Supt Craig Nicholson, of Humberside police, said the force had “taken primacy for the investigation of any potential criminal offences which arise from the collision between the two vessels”.
He added: “Extensive work has already been carried out, and we are working closely with our partners to understand what happened, and to provide support to all of those affected.
“Following inquiries undertaken by my team, we have arrested a 59-year-old man on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter in connection with the collision. This follows the conclusion of search operations by HM Coastguard for the missing crew member of the Solong.
“Our thoughts are with the family of the missing crew member, and I have appointed family liaison officers to make contact and provide support to the family.
“The man arrested remains in custody at this time whilst inquiries are under way, and we continue speaking with all those involved to establish the full circumstances of the incident.”
More details soon …