(MENAFN) A research vessel named the Petrel tipped over in a dry dock on the outskirts of Edinburgh, Scotland on Wednesday morning, injuring at least 25 people. According to the Scottish Ambulance Service, 15 people were taken to a local hospital, while 10 others were treated for injuries at the scene.
Emergency services were called to the Imperial Dock in the suburb of Leith at around 8:30 a.m. local time (4:30 a.m. Eastern) following reports that the ship had listed 45 degrees to the right in the dock. Photos circulating on social media showed the massive ship leaning against the wall of the dry dock.
Local politician Adam McVey took to Twitter to explain that the ship had been "dislodged from its holding in strong winds," adding that the incident was "terrifying for those on board." The Scottish Ambulance Service dispatched five ambulances, a helicopter, and three trauma teams, along with other resources, to the dock. Firefighters and coastguard teams also assisted in the rescue effort.
The 250-foot Petrel was previously purchased and outfitted by the late Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, whose estate still owns the vessel. It is unclear what the ship was being used for at the time of the incident.
Edinburgh Police confirmed that officers remained at the scene after the incident and asked members of the public to avoid the area. Investigators will be looking into the cause of the incident, especially in light of the strong winds that were reported in the area. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of taking all necessary precautions when working with large vessels, especially in adverse weather conditions.
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