However, the full extent of the damage remains unclear. The vessel was carrying 220,000 barrels of aviation fuel in 18 containers of varying sizes, intended for use by the US military.
The German shipping company Ernst Russ, which owns Solong, stated that while the fire on its vessel was mostly under control, smoke and occasional flames were still being reported. Firefighting vessels remained on site to manage small fires on Solong's top deck.
Stena Bulk CEO Erik Hanel said the Stena Immaculate is anchored at sea, and a decision on its next steps is expected within 24 to 48 hours. A full assessment of structural damage will be conducted once a team can board the vessel.
Chief Coastguard Paddy O'Callaghan reported that Solong had been towed to a safe location, while Stena Immaculate remained at its original position. Three aerial surveillance flights on Wednesday found no visible pollution from either vessel.
The Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) is leading the safety investigation, with Portugal and the US participating. Investigators are collecting witness statements and digital data, with a full inspection planned when conditions allow.
The Russian captain of the Solong has been arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter, following reports of a missing crew member. Ernst Russ stated that it is assisting authorities and is focused on the recovery of the vessel. Humberside Police have launched a criminal investigation into the cause of the collision.
Both vessels caught fire following the collision, prompting a major emergency response. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency confirmed that 36 crew members were safely evacuated. Grimsby-based Windcat, which provides support to offshore wind farms, played a key role in the rescue, transporting 17 individuals to shore.
Authorities are coordinating with salvage companies to mitigate environmental risks and ensure safety. Maritime and Coastguard Agency chief executive Virginia McVea reported no additional pollution beyond what was initially observed.
According to Whitehall sources, the Solong’s crew included Russian and Filipino nationals, which is common in the shipping industry. The Stena Immaculate’s crew, all American, are currently in Grimsby awaiting repatriation.
Florida-based Crowley, the co-owner of Stena Immaculate, stated that the tanker had been waiting for a berth at the Port of Killingholme on the Humber Estuary at the time of the incident. The company confirmed that the collision caused multiple explosions and released an undetermined quantity of jet fuel.
