Sleep-Deprived Watch Officer Causes Container Ship to Run Aground in Norway

Investigations are underway following a significant accident in Norway, where the watch officer of a large container ship fell asleep while navigating, causing the vessel to run aground in a residential area. The ship narrowly missed a home, with authorities now scrutinizing adherence to working hours regulations.

The watch officer of a sizeable container ship that crashed into a garden in Norway has revealed to police that he fell asleep during his shift. This incident occurred on Thursday morning in Byneset, located near Trondheim, where the 135-meter (443 feet) ship ran aground, just meters away from a residence.

The officer, a Ukrainian national in his thirties, was in charge of navigating the vessel at the time of the accident. He has since been charged with negligent navigation, as investigators work to confirm if the crew was following the mandated rules of working and rest hours. "The individual charged was the officer on watch at the time of the incident," stated Kjetil Bruland Sørensen, a prosecutor in Trøndelag Police District.

Reports indicate that the Cypriot-flagged cargo ship, named NCL Salten, was making its way to Orkanger when it strayed off course. Thankfully, no injuries were reported among the 16 crew members aboard. However, the logistics company NCL, which chartered the vessel, described the incident as “serious” and is cooperating with authorities throughout the ongoing investigation.

Concern for local residents mounted when Johan Helberg, the owner of the property that the ship nearly collided with, expressed shock upon witnessing the colossal vessel in his front garden. The proximity of the ship left him startled; “It’s a very bulky new neighbor, but it will soon go away,” he remarked humorously to Norwegian television.

A neighboring resident detailed the panic that ensued as he caught sight of the ship heading straight for the shore. “I didn’t know if I was dreaming… it was so surreal,” expressed Bard Jorgensen, stating that his father shouted in fear upon witnessing the vessel's approach.

According to additional reports, this was not the first time the NCL Salten had run aground; the crew successfully refloated it earlier in the year using its own power. As salvage operations continue, community members and authorities monitor the situation closely, prioritizing safety during the recovery efforts.