SPS Virginia
On September 19, the 11 meter long, 25 gt tugboat SPS Virginia mysteriously sank on the Merrimack River off Deer Island near Amesbury, Massachusetts. The SPS Virginia had been moored unmanned off Deer Island when it was reported missing the following day. A search for the tug found it resting on its side in 20 to 30 feet of water. Salvagers were called in and were able to refloat the SPS Virginia a few days later. The SPS Virginia was brought to the surface, pumped out and towed to a basin. Reports state there was no visible damage to the vessel and all hatches were still secured. The Coast Guard has launched an investigation into the incident.