Jet Fuel Tanker Ablaze in Dramatic Collision off England

A tanker loaded with jet fuel collided with a container ship off northeast England, igniting a fire and causing multiple explosions. Emergency crews responded to the scene while experts assessed potential environmental damage. The collision involved the Stena Immaculate and the cargo ship Solong, which triggered the release of fuel into the sea.

A tanker carrying jet fuel collided with a container ship off the northeast coast of England on Monday, resulting in fiery explosions and forcing the crews to evacuate. The ships, including the anchored Stena Immaculate, were heavily damaged, sparking serious concerns about environmental fallout in the region.

The Stena Immaculate was on a short-term charter for the U.S. Navy's Military Sealift Command, while the Portuguese-flagged Solong carried containers of sodium cyanide and alcohol. Local officials reported 32 casualties, with one still hospitalized by mid-afternoon.

Environmental experts worry about the potential damage to nearby wildlife, especially seabirds. The incident occurred in a busy maritime corridor en route to Rotterdam. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as insurance and shipping officials assess the collision impacts.

(With inputs from agencies.)