Barges Break Loose on the Ohio River
Authorities from multiple law enforcement agencies are currently investigating a situation where more than 20 barges broke loose and drifted down the Ohio River.
The commander of the Pittsburgh district of the Army Corp of Engineers informed reporters that all 26 barges that had broken loose have been located, with some of them coming to a rest against the Emsworth Lock and Dam on the Ohio River.
Fortunately, early assessments have revealed no damage to the dam, and there have been no reported injuries.
The incident was reported to the Pittsburgh Police around 11:30 pm on Friday night. According to a spokesperson from the U.S. Coast Guard, the 26 barges broke away from a vessel near mile marker one. Of these, 23 were carrying cargo while three were empty.
Although the loaded barges were transporting dry goods like coal, there were no hazardous materials onboard. Eleven of the barges have come to a halt, wedged against the river bank by Brunot Island and are currently secured by a tugboat. Additionally, nine barges have stopped at the Emsworth Lock and Dam.
Tragedy Strikes as Barges Crash Through Dam
Tragedy struck yesterday when a group of barges crashed through a dam on the river. Out of the seven crew members on board, one is believed to have sunk while the others have been accounted for downstream.
Peggy's Marina, along with several other docks in the area, suffered extensive damage as a result of the incident. The commander mentioned that the high water levels were a contributing factor to the accident.
The company responsible for the barges, Campbell Transportation Company, is currently under investigation for the mishap. Fortunately, the bridges that were closed overnight due to the incident have since reopened.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story on KDKA-TV, CBS News Pittsburgh, and KDKA.com.
