On January 30, the fishing tug Sandy sank on Pere Marquette Lake at Ludington, Michigan. The vessel was at its winter berth when it’s hull was damaged by ice resulting in water ingress and sank. There were no injuries as no one was on board at the time of the sinking. The Coast Guard was notified and dispatched a response team to the scene to monitor salvage and any release of pollution. Reports state a few days later, equipment arrived and was able to hoist the Sandy out of the water.
Photo: Sturgeon Bay Fire Dept
The 158 meter long, 19,414 dwt self-unloading bulk carrier Alpena caught fire on Lake Michigan while berthed at a shipyard in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. The fire started in the stern section just above the engine room and quickly extended into the superstructure. Local firefighters arrived on scene and were able to bring the blaze under control. No reports of injuries. The Alpena sustained significant fire damage and required multiple weeks for repairs before it can go back into service. Reports state the Alpena was undergoing a five year inspection.
The 1004 foot long, dwt 62335 bulk carrier Mesabi Miner collided with the 68 meter long, Coast Guard cutter Hollyhock near the Mackinac Bridge in the Straits of Mackinac. The Hollyhock was breaking ice with several lake freighters following behind with the Miner following astern of the icebreaker. When the Hollyhock hit an ice pressure ridge, it suddenly halted. The Mesabi Miner was unable to stop and struck the stern of the cutter. The cutter had significant damage to its stern and fantail while the Mesabi Miner sustained damage to its bow. The Mesabi Miner was freed later the same day by the assistance of cutters Biscayne Bay and Katmai Bay. The Hollyhock proceeded to St. Ignace aided by the cutter Biscayne Bay. The Mesabi Miner continued on its way to Gary, Indiana with its cargo of iron ore. No reports of injuries or pollution released.
