Seven crew of US destroyer missing after sea collision

SEVEN crew members of a US destroyer were reportedly missing last night following a collision with a merchant ship off the Japanese coast.

The collision, which involved the USS Fitzgerald, took place 56 nautical miles south-west of Yokosuka, in eastern Japan.

According to a US defence department official, three compartments of the Fitzgerald were flooded.

The spokesman said there had been injuries as a result of the accident.

According to Japan broadcaster NHK, seven members of the crew were unaccounted for following the accident.

Footage taken by the broadcaster showed damage to the right of the hull of the 505ft destroyer.

According to the station, the Fitzgerald colllided with ACX Crystal, a Philippine container ship.

In a brief written statement, US Pacific Fleet in Hawaii said the navy had requested assistance from the Japanese coastguard, including helping with the evacuation of one of those injured in the collision.

The fleet added that the extent of injuries and damage to the Fitzgerald were “being determined” and that the incident was under investigation.

The USS Fitzgerald is an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer, which was commissioned in 1995.

It is based in Yokosuka and its crew numbers 23 officers, 24 chief petty officers and 291 enlisted members of the navy.

Despite the collision, the Fitzgerald was making its way back to Yokosuka without assistance.

However, the USS Dewey and two navy tugs were sent to the area, with aircraft being prepared to assist if necessary.