The Panama-flagged car carrier Morning Midas has sunk in the North Pacific Ocean after a three-week battle against a massive onboard fire.

The blaze, which broke out earlier this month while the vessel was en route from South Korea to Mexico, forced the evacuation of all 23 crew members, who were safely rescued. Despite continuous firefighting efforts by salvage teams, the vessel eventually succumbed to severe damage and went down in deep waters.

Authorities are closely monitoring the area for any signs of pollution or fuel leakage, as the ship carried thousands of vehicles and large amounts of fuel. The incident once again raises global concern over fire safety standards aboard vehicle carriers, especially with the growing number of electric vehicles being transported at sea.

PHOTO COURTESY: US COAST GUARD