[TXnMA]

I've replicated the ACX Crystal's reported detailed path -- adding in the relative positions of the two vessels at the time of collision:

Based on the angle of impact, I'd say that it's likely that the Fitzgerald was maneuvering to avoid collision at the time of impact.

Perhaps I've been reading too much Clive Cussler ("Serpent" -- wherein the helmsman of the Stockholm deliberately rammed the Andrea Dorea)...

But,

Given the extremely difficult (and deliberate) maneuvering by the big container ship-- plus the fact that the ACX Crystal DID NOT STOP TO RENDER AID as required by international law -- I cannot help but speculate that the collision was a deliberate act of war by the helmsman and/or crew of the ACX Crystal...

~~~~

I almost hate to ask this, but -- has anyone checked the religion of the officers and crew of the ACX Crystal?

[Gideon7]

I heard that the Fitzgerald was stationary when the ACX Crystal turned around and rammed it.

This is starting to smell fishy.

[blueunicorn6]

I know that the cargo ship companies really watch their fuel use.

It makes no economic sense for the container ship to backtrack. They would just be burning money.

[GOYAKLA]

The course of the Crystal is more than worrisome! It reminds me of a Robber wandering around waiting for a Target(someone who just left a Bank with MONEY). The Crystal track, suggests Stalking!
To me, FBI should be deep in screening the Crystal Crew. Had the Fitzgerald just left port and if so, from where.
If Fitzgerald had been tracking ALL ships within 300 nm and observed this behavior then she should have been @ Battle Station and Crystal sunk at 50nm!
Someone’s +SS is grass!

[KC Burke]

That course is indeed bizarre. The speed reported sounded crazy as well — 15 knots at 2;30 am on a foggy night.

[mewzilla]

The merchant vessel didn’t stop afterwards?!

[mewzilla]

http://www3.nhk.or.jp/news/html/20170618/k10011021491000.html

Update there. Discusses jurisdiction. Still no word on the 7 missing sailors, though the article mentions that the flooded sections of the destroyer are being drained and checked.

[FreedomStar3028]

You have it backwards. It hit on the other side of the fitz.