On April 8, the 114 meter long , 2893 dwt cargo vessel Bellatrix caught fire in the Ionian Sea some 180 miles off Catania, Italy. The Bellatrix was en route to Samsun from Khoms when a fire broke out in the vessel’s engine room. The fire quickly grew out of control and the crew sent out a distress call. The nearby cargo vessel Arife responded and rescued all 12 crew on board the Bellatrix safely. Italian authorities dispatched vessels and aircraft to the scene to monitor the Bellatrix. Reports state a tug has been hired to take the Bellatrix under tow and proceed to Aliaga, Turkey.  The Bellatrix was proceeding in ballast only.  No reports of injuries.