Published by Global Banking & Finance Review®
Posted on February 5, 2026
1 min readLast updated: February 5, 2026
Add as preferred source on GoogleA Russian captain was sentenced to 6 years for causing a crew member's death in a tanker crash off Britain's coast due to gross negligence.
LONDON, Feb 5 (Reuters) - The captain of a container ship that crashed into a U.S. tanker off Britain's east coast last year was jailed for 6 years on Thursday for causing the death of a crew member through gross negligence.
Russian national Vladimir Motin, 59, was captain of the Portuguese-flagged Solong when it hit the Stena Immaculate tanker, which was anchored, on March 10, 2025.
The collision caused the death of Filipino national and Solong crew member Mark Pernia, 38, whose body has never been found and is presumed dead.
After a trial at London's Old Bailey court, Motin was convicted on Monday and returned for sentencing on Thursday, when Judge Andrew Baker told him that Pernia died "under your command ... and because of your gross negligence".
(Reporting by Sam Tobin; editing by William James)
Gross negligence refers to a severe degree of negligence that demonstrates a reckless disregard for the safety or lives of others, often leading to serious consequences.
A maritime accident is an incident that occurs on navigable waters, involving vessels and resulting in damage, injury, or loss of life.
Legal consequences can include criminal charges, civil liability, and penalties for negligence or violations of maritime laws.
A ship captain is responsible for the safe navigation and operation of the vessel, ensuring compliance with maritime laws and the safety of the crew and cargo.
Victims' families may face emotional distress, financial burdens, and legal challenges following a maritime accident, especially if there are fatalities or serious injuries.
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