A tragic incident in the North Sea has resulted in a serious legal development. On Monday, 10 March 2025, a collision between a tanker and a cargo vessel off the coast of East Yorkshire claimed the life of a crew member, prompting a swift investigation by Humberside Police and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).
Following days of inquiry, the captain of the SOLONG vessel, Vladimir Motin, aged 59, from Primorsky, St Petersburg, Russia, has been charged with Gross Negligence Manslaughter. He remains in custody and is scheduled to appear at Hull Magistrates Court on Saturday, 15 March.
The collision was reported to Humberside Police at approximately 11 a.m. on 10 March. Emergency services responded promptly, with HM Coastguard launching extensive search efforts to locate the missing crew member. Despite their best efforts, the individual has not been found and is now presumed deceased. Specialist officers are providing ongoing support to the family during this distressing time.
Humberside Police have confirmed that the investigation centres on the circumstances leading to the collision. Early reports suggest that the tanker and the SOLONG cargo vessel collided in challenging conditions, though the exact cause remains under review. The MCA, responsible for maritime safety in UK waters, is working closely with police to establish a timeline of events.
Vladimir Motin, as captain of the SOLONG, is accused of failing in his duty of care, a charge that carries significant weight under UK law. Gross Negligence Manslaughter requires evidence of a serious breach of responsibility resulting in death—a threshold the prosecution believes has been met. Motin’s court appearance tomorrow will mark the beginning of what could be a lengthy legal process.
The North Sea, a vital shipping route, is no stranger to maritime incidents. According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations, collisions, though rare, can have devastating consequences due to the busy traffic and unpredictable weather. This incident underscores the importance of stringent safety protocols at sea. For more on maritime regulations, visit our guide here.
The MCA has assured the public that a full report will be released once the investigation concludes. For now, their priority remains supporting the police and ensuring the safety of ongoing maritime operations. Families and crew members affected by the collision are being kept informed as details emerge.
This case also highlights the human cost of maritime work. The missing crew member, whose identity has not been released, leaves behind grieving loved ones. Humberside Police have reiterated their commitment to uncovering the truth, stating, “Our thoughts are with the family as we continue our inquiries.”
