The US Route 51 bridge spanning the Ohio River near Cairo, Illinois was struck by barges under the tow of the 33 meter long towboat Robert T. The Robert T was pushing 12 flat deck barges down stream when it allided with one of the bridge’s piers. Authorities stopped traffic while inspectors check for any damage on the bridge. A few hours later the bridge was reopened and traffic was permitted. The Coast Guard is conducting an investigation into the incident.
The 43 meter long towboat Janis R. Brewer allided with the lock wall on the Ohio River at the Canneltons Lock and Dam near Cannelton, Indiana. The impact cause the towboat’s barges break free. One crew man fell overboard and perished. Reports state the crewman was wearing a life jacket. An investigation into the incident and the crewman’s death is being conducted by authorities.
A towboat on the Ohio River had 4 barges break free downstream of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvannia when it was preparing to enter the Emsworth Lock. Three of the barges floated until they weree pressed up against a railroad bridge on Neville Island. One barge loaded with steel coils sank allowing another barge loaded with coal to float further downstream until it got hung up on a channel that is part of Emsworth Dam. Hazardous Materials teams were deployed as one barge containing light crude oil containing benzene. Bridge traffic was suspended and 1,000 students were evacuated as a precaution. Crews later were able to secure the barge with light crude oil and one other with a cargo of coal. Reports state the safety wires broke due to the strong current of the river due to the high water and recent rain in the area. Reports state that there was no release of pollution and the railroad bridge did not sustain any damage.
