Collision on the Mississippi River
On March 23, 2026, at approximately 3:30 p.m., a significant maritime incident occurred on the Mississippi River at mile marker 124.5, near Norco. The bulk carrier ‘African Buzzard’, traveling from Plaquemines Parish Port to New Orleans, collided with the cargo vessel ‘Pac Dubhe’, which was en route from Baton Rouge to Cristobal. This accident resulted in the anchor of the ‘African Buzzard’ becoming lodged in the bow of the ‘Pac Dubhe’, leaving both vessels stuck together.
The collision caused considerable damage to the ‘Pac Dubhe‘, particularly to its port side bow. Following the incident, the ‘African Buzzard’ drifted out of the navigation channel and subsequently ran aground. In response, authorities swiftly imposed speed restrictions in the vicinity of mile marker 124 to ensure safety and facilitate rescue operations. A moving safety zone was established for salvage operations stretching from river mile 124.5 to Bonnet Carre at river mile 128, encompassing one mile both ahead and behind the vessels involved.
Salvage Operations Underway
As of March 26, both vessel operators initiated thorough assessments to formulate salvage plans, which they were required to submit to the U.S. Coast Guard. The ‘Mr. Ruben’, ‘Beverly B.’, ‘A. Thomas Higgins’, and ‘Billy G.’ were among the tugs deployed to assist in the salvage operations. Additional support vessels, including the ‘Charles L. Strait’, ‘St. Therese’, ‘Martha Lynn’, ‘Endeavor’, and ‘Tom Rogers’, were also present in the area to provide assistance as needed.
Tugboat Sinks After Collision with Bulker on the Mississippi
On March 26 at around 11 p.m. UTC, the ‘African Buzzard’ was successfully berthed in New Orleans. Meanwhile, the ‘Pac Dubhe’ remained stationary at coordinates 29° 60′ N 090° 26′ W as of March 27. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries to the crew members aboard either vessel, and there was no visible environmental impact or pollution resulting from the collision. The Mississippi River remained open for vessel traffic during this period, allowing for continued commerce and navigation.
Investigation and Safety Measures
The U.S. Coast Guard, along with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), has launched a joint investigation into the incident to determine its cause. The safety of navigation in the area is of paramount importance, and the Coast Guard has implemented speed restrictions for vessels transiting near the incident site. These measures aim to enhance safety and prevent future occurrences of similar incidents on the river.
