Chemical Tanker Explosion Leaves 1 Dead in Turkey [Photos]

Published Jan 21, 2014 3:21 PM by The Maritime Executive

Turkish Coast Guard rescue vessels rushed to the scene of a chemical tanker explosion near Tuzla Shipyard in Istanbul. The ship was identified as the Turkish-flagged Tibilisi.

The ship's captain confirmed that a total of 19 crewmen were evacuated from the vessel. Four have been injured - the extent of their injuries were unclear. One crewmember was prounounced dead.

The blast occurred in the starboard side of the tanker, tearing a two meter hole in the ship’s hull. The ship listed heavily to starboard, but did not appear to be in danger of sinking.