In March, Vladimir Motin was the sole watchkeeper when the Solong collided with the Stena Immaculate near the Humber Estuary, resulting in the death of crew member Mark Angelo Pernia, aged 38. During the trial, Motin, 59, explained that he refrained from initiating a “crash stop” due to concerns that it could endanger the lives of crew members in the accommodation block of the US-registered tanker. He believed that ensuring a correct impact location was more critical than stopping, as he assessed there was no immediate risk to life.
Motin stated he was unaware that Pernia was on the bow of the Solong at the time of the incident. He did not raise an alarm or contact the Stena Immaculate, focusing instead on navigating the vessel. He had completed multiple trips prior to the accident and denied being asleep or leaving his post, claiming he first noticed the Stena Immaculate from 10 to 12 nautical miles away. He delayed evasive action, believing the tanker was moving slowly and unpredictably.
As the Solong approached the Stena Immaculate, Motin switched from autopilot to manual steering but encountered issues with the rudder. After several attempts to regain control, he recalled advice from a company representative regarding rudder faults on a sister ship. Despite his efforts to rectify the steering issue, he did not consider reversing the engine or slowing down, focusing instead on resolving the problem quickly. Following the collision, he communicated to his wife via WhatsApp that there had been a disaster and he felt guilty.
Under cross-examination, Motin acknowledged his responsibility for the safety of his crew and accepted that he failed to prevent the collision. He admitted to not correctly transitioning from autopilot to manual control, stating, “The vessel was technically perfect. It was my mistake.” As the trial continues, Motin, hailing from Primorsky, St. Petersburg, denies charges of manslaughter.
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