On April 7, the 35 meter long tugboat Gene Dunlap ran ashore at Seattle, Washington. The Gene Dunlap was under tow by another tugboat heading to a nearby drydock when the vessel suffered water ingress. To avoid sinking, the tugboat pushed the Gene Dunlap into shallow water. Assisted by authorities, the crew was able to dewater the Gene Dunlap and make repairs. No reports of injuries or pollution released.
The 125 foot long research vessel Hero sank near Willapa Bay at its berth in Bay Center, Washington. The Coast Guard was notified that the vessel had partially sank and a light sheen of pollution was visible.
Authorities dispatched a response team to the scene and deployed booms and absorbent pads to collect and contain the pollution. No reports of injuries.
The Coast Guard has contracted a salvage company to remove the remaining oil and fuel from the vessel. The operation shall be paid using the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund.
The 50 foot long, 13 ton fishing vessel Liberty ran aground on Whidbey Island, Washington. The Liberty had been reported unmanned and adrift for over a month before it eventually washed ashore on to the beach. Authorities found the fishing vessel had no fuel on board and no signs of pollution released. The Liberty will be pulled off the beach on the following high tide and be towed to Everett. Reports state the fishing vessel had been moored at Port Ludlow before it had gone adrift.
