A deadly maritime collision occurred off Toba, Japan, on 20 February, involving the cargo vessel Shinsei Maru and the fishing boat Kosei Maru. The incident left two fishermen dead and 10 people injured.
According to the Japan Coast Guard, the collision happened at around 12:55 local time. The impact reportedly split Kosei Maru in two and caused it to capsize, throwing all 13 people on board—including the captain—into the sea. The individuals were reported to be wearing lifejackets.
Earlier the same day, Shinsei Maru had completed cargo operations and departed Kinuura Port, bound for Kurasiki Port, when the collision occurred.
Initial reports indicated two people were in cardiac and respiratory arrest, one person was missing, and ten sustained injuries of varying severity. Authorities launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation involving multiple vessels and response teams. A later update confirmed the previously missing person was found, while the two critically affected casualties were transported to hospital, where their deaths were confirmed.
All five crew members of Shinsei Maru were reported safe and uninjured. The Japan Coast Guard has opened an investigation into the circumstances and cause of the collision.
