NORFOLK, Va., April 15 (UPI) -- A U.S. Navy commander who was in charge of a nuclear-powered submarine that crashed into another vessel has been relieved of duty, Navy officials say.
Navy officials confirmed in a statement Cmdr. Ryan Brookhart will no longer lead the crew of the Navy submarine Hartford, which collided with the amphibious transport dock New Orleans in the Strait of Hormuz, The (Norfolk) Virginian-Pilot said Wednesday.
Navy officials said investigations into the March 20 collision are still under way.
The unidentified officials said Rear Adm. Michael J. Connor relieved Brookhart from his post due to a loss of confidence in the commander's ability to command, the Virginian-Pilot said.
The Hartford, whose nuclear propulsion system was not damaged in the Hormuz collision, will now be lead by Cmdr. Chris Harkins of Submarine Squadron Eight.
The Virginian-Pilot said 15 sailors on board the Hartford were injured in the collision. Those hurt in the incident have since returned to active duty.
