Close Call for Algoma Guardian Near Brockville
A dramatic incident unfolded on Wednesday morning when the bulk carrier Algoma Guardian came alarmingly close to the Brockville waterfront. Witnesses reported that the vessel veered dangerously near the shoreline, prompting concerns among local residents. Fortunately, no injuries or damage were reported, and the ship has since resumed its journey.
Witness Accounts of the Incident
Residents near the waterfront were taken aback as they observed the Algoma Guardian approaching the city’s coastline, particularly near Cunningham Park on Thomas Street. Eyewitness Tina Gardiner, who lives on the 20th floor of a nearby condominium, described the scene as surreal. “I couldn’t believe what I was seeing – it felt like it wasn’t real, like an AI video that you would see on the internet,” she recounted.
Gardiner was in her kitchen preparing breakfast for her granddaughter when she noticed the ship’s unusual maneuver. Initially, the Algoma Guardian was moving down the river as expected, but then it suddenly turned perpendicular to the shoreline, heading straight for land. “We saw tons of black smoke pouring out from the ship, as I assume they were trying to slow it down,” Gardiner added, expressing her concern about the ship’s trajectory and whether it was under control.
Company and Coast Guard Response
Algoma Central Corporation, the owner of the Algoma Guardian, acknowledged the incident in a brief statement. They confirmed that all relevant authorities had been notified and emphasized that there were no injuries, contact, property damage, or environmental impact resulting from the close call. The company stated, “The vessel is continuing its planned voyage and is currently stopped due to traffic in the Seaway.”
At the time of the incident, a Canadian Coast Guard vessel was in the vicinity conducting buoy work. Coast Guard officials noted that while they witnessed the incident, they did not provide assistance, as they were not engaged in any rescue operations. Fortunately, the Algoma Guardian managed to avoid colliding with the shoreline and returned safely to the river.
As of late Wednesday, the Algoma Guardian was anchored on the St. Lawrence River in the Maitland area, awaiting the resumption of traffic. The vessel’s final destination is Baie-Comeau, Quebec, as it continues its journey after the alarming encounter.
