Norwegian cargo ship captain and pilot face trial over fatal collision near Tjörn
In Hakefjorden off Tjörn, a Norwegian cargo ship struck a small recreational boat from behind, resulting in two fatalities—a mother and her daughter—and injuries to the father and son. The ship's captain and its pilot have been charged with homicide, bodily harm and maritime negligence, both denying wrongdoing. The courtroom debate centers on who held ultimate responsibility for watchkeeping, with the captain asserting legal liability but blaming the pilot, while the pilot claims he never performed lookout duties.
A collision between a Norwegian cargo ship and a leisure boat in Hakefjorden near Tjörn led to the deaths of a mother and her daughter, while the father and son escaped with injuries. The vessel's captain and the pilot aboard at the time have been indicted for causing death, causing bodily injury and reckless conduct in maritime traffic, and both maintain their innocence. The trial focuses on determining which crew member bore the primary duty of lookout; the captain admitted legal responsibility but argued the pilot should be held accountable, whereas the pilot contended that only a qualified crew member may serve as lookout and he never performed that role.
Prosecutors say both men failed to observe proper seamanship and breached several navigation rules, seeking prison terms. Defense lawyers argue the smaller boat should have kept a better rear watch and stayed farther out in the channel, emphasizing the accident resulted from a series of unfortunate circumstances rather than a single party's fault. The verdict is scheduled for 30 September at 11:00.
How this story developed
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