UPDATE: Death Toll Rises in the Aftermath of Jolly Nero Accident

The death toll of the Jolly Nero accident, which brought down the Pilot Tower in Genoa, Italy has increased to seven people as reported by BBC News.

Two people are still missing as the rescue operation continues.

According to Ansa news agency, the vessel’s “black box” has been seized by investigators and it is believed that the cause of the accident was some sort of a mechanical failure.

Inchcape Shipping Services (ISS) advises that the full port closure, which will be in place until 13:00hrs today (9th May), and extensive damage to vital port infrastructure, is likely to cause on-going disruption. Shipping already in Genoa is likely to be held in port for an extended period, while incoming vessels are being advised to stay anchored until advised, or to consider diverting to alternative destinations.

To remind, Jolly Nero of the Italian shipping line Ignazio Messina & C., crashed into a control tower on Tuesday night at around 23:00 in the Italian port of Genoa.

Ten people were in the tower at the moment of the crash.

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World Maritime News Staff, May 9, 2013