The 77 foot fishing boat Judy K sank at the pier in Honolulu Harbor, Hawaii. The vessel released some 50 gallons of diesel fuel into the water. The Coast Guard and local authorities responded to the scene. They placed booms around the vessel and pads to contain the pollution. Reports state the Judy K had been abandoned and no equipment was on board. No reports of injuries.
The 46 foot long fishing vessel Hornet became disabled off the entrance to the Columbia River, Washington. The Hornet had lost power and was taking on water in 4 meter seas and 25 mph winds. The crew sent out a mayday with two USCG lifeboats from Cape Disappointment, a Jayhawk helicopter from Astoria and a nearby fishing vessel responding to the scene. The rescue vessels arrived within half an hour. The 47 foot lifeboat took the Hornet under tow while assisting the crew with a dewatering pump. The vessels proceeded to Ilwaco, Washington. Two crew of the Hornet sustained minor injuries, but did not require medical attention. No reports of pollution released. The Coast Guard has launched an investigation into the incident.
On October 3, the 60 foot long fishing boat The Sakonnet Lobster sank off Block Island, Rhode Island. The Sakonnet Lobster was fishing for lobsters when the crew discovered the vessel had sprung a leak. The crew sent out a distress call and requested assistance. The Coast Guard dispatched a helicopter along with the 87 foot long cutter Chinook to the scene. The four crew on the Sakonnet Lobster donned survival suits and abandoned ship. Twenty minutes later the Coast Guard helicopter arrived and hoisted the men from the sea to safety. No reports of injuries. The Sakonnet Lobster sank in 250 feet of water. Reports state the vessel’s location was recorded to allow the vessel to be salvaged.
