In a heartbreaking turn of events, a humpback whale affectionately known as 'Midnight' has succumbed following a collision with the BC Ferries vessel 'Northern Expedition.' The incident, reported on Wednesday in Wright Sound near Prince Rupert, has sparked a thorough investigation.

Researchers are currently conducting a necropsy to uncover the exact cause of death, as local First Nations and marine biologists worked quickly to recover Midnight's body the following morning.

Grace Baer, the research and project manager at North Coast Cetacean Society, highlighted the alarming frequency of whale strikes in this busy transit area. "This location is critical for vessels, particularly during the summer and fall when humpbacks and fin whales are abundant," she explained.

BC Ferries has responded to the incident, asserting its commitment to marine conservation. The organization emphasizes that ferry crews are trained through the 'Whales in our Waters' program and actively participate in the Whale Report Alert system to mitigate such tragedies.

As the investigation continues, the loss of Midnight serves as a tragic reminder of the challenges faced by marine life in busy shipping lanes, urging authorities to take further steps to protect these magnificent creatures.