The Houston Chronicle is reporting that a collision between two tugs towing barges near High Island today closed the Intracoastal Waterway.
No injuries were reported in the predawn collision, according to a statement issued by the U.S. Coast Guard in Port Arthur.
The Coast Guard says the vessels were towing barges near the Texas 124 bridge when they collided. The Caroline began taking on water, so its five-member crew abandoned ship to the nearby tug Redeemer. Then, the Redeemer crew helped to secure the Caroline’s five barges, which contained lube oil.
The Coast Guard says the Caroline partially sank in the canal, so booms were set up to contain a minor oil spill.
A Coast Guard spokeswoman says there was no damage to the Miss Stacie nor injuries to its crew.
If you or someone you know has been injured while working offshore, please contact us at Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, L.L.P., Accident & Injury Lawyers to find out your rights. Our firm has years of experience litigating claims within the maritime and longshore fields. Mr. Shaffer may be reached via email at mshaffer@smslegal.com.
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