Russian Captain's Negligence Leads to Fatal Maritime Collision

Vladimir Motin, a Russian captain, was convicted of gross negligence manslaughter in a London court after his ship, Solong, collided with a U.S. tanker, causing the death of crew member Mark Pernia. The collision, which started a fire, was deemed preventable, and civil litigation is pending.

A Russian ship captain was found guilty of causing a fatal collision off Britain's coast, a London court ruled on Monday. Vladimir Motin, 59, faced charges of gross negligence, which resulted in the death of Solong crew member Mark Pernia.

The incident unfolded on March 10 when Motin's container ship, the Solong, struck the Stena Immaculate tanker, triggering a blaze and leading to Pernia's presumed death. Prosecutor Tom Little argued that Motin did nothing to avert the crash, despite having 30 minutes to change course.

Although Motin's defense claimed he attempted to regain control of the ship, he was ultimately convicted and awaits sentencing. The collision also initiated civil lawsuits against Solong's owner, Ernst Russ, which is due for a hearing next month.

(With inputs from agencies.)