Close Call for Algoma Guardian Near Brockville Shoreline
On December 31, 2025, the bulk carrier Algoma Guardian narrowly avoided a collision with the Brockville waterfront in Ontario. Witnesses reported that the vessel came alarmingly close to the shoreline, approximately 30 meters from Cunningham Park on Thomas Street. The incident raised concerns among local residents, who watched in disbelief as the ship made an unexpected turn towards land.
Incident Details and Witness Accounts
Eyewitnesses described the scene as dramatic and alarming. Tina Gardiner, a resident of the Tall Ships condos, observed the incident from her 20th-floor kitchen. “I couldn’t believe what I was seeing,” she stated. “It felt like it wasn’t real, like an AI video that you would see on the internet.” Gardiner was preparing breakfast for her granddaughter when she noticed the Algoma Guardian approaching the river. Suddenly, the ship made a sharp turn perpendicular to the shoreline, heading straight for land.
As the vessel drew closer, Gardiner reported seeing thick black smoke billowing from the ship, suggesting that the crew was attempting to slow it down. “I was wondering if they had it under control,” she said. “It was heading pretty quickly toward that neighborhood near Jessie Street.” The sight left her and her granddaughter in shock, as they both struggled to comprehend the unfolding situation.
Company and Coast Guard Response
Algoma Central Corporation, the owner of the Algoma Guardian, issued a statement acknowledging the incident. The company confirmed that all relevant authorities had been notified and emphasized that there were no injuries, property damage, or environmental impacts resulting from the close call. The vessel continued its planned voyage after the incident, although it was temporarily stopped due to traffic in the St. Lawrence Seaway.
At the time of the incident, a Canadian Coast Guard vessel was in the vicinity conducting buoy work. Coast Guard officials reported that they witnessed the event but did not provide assistance, as they were not engaged in any rescue operations. Fortunately, the Algoma Guardian managed to avoid contact with both the shoreline and a nearby sandbar, allowing it to return safely to the river.
As of late Wednesday, the Algoma Guardian was anchored in the Maitland area of the St. Lawrence River, awaiting the resumption of traffic. Its final destination is Baie-Comeau, Quebec. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential hazards associated with large vessels navigating near populated areas.
