The following is the text of a news release from the U.S. Coast Guard:
(PITTSBURGH) — The Coast Guard is responding to a report of a grounded towing vessel near mile marker 65 on the Ohio River, Wednesday.
Watchstanders with Coast Guard Sector Ohio River Valley received the initial notification at about 10 p.m. Monday, of the vessel Elizabeth D grounding near the right descending bank of the river. Investigating officers with Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Pittsburgh responded to the grounding.
The Coast Guard is working with the vessel owner and maritime representatives to safely refloat the vessel and working to reduce any environmental impact.
There is a report of a slight sheen in the vicinity of the vessel, which is contained by boom. The Elizabeth D was reportedly pushing 12 empty coal barges down river at the time of the grounding.
The cause of the incident is under investigation.
UPDATE
(PITTSBURGH) — Responses crews for the Elizabeth D refloated the vessel at mile marker 65 on the Ohio River, Wednesday afternoon.
Personnel on scene, including a marine surveyor, conducted a damage survey of the vessel after it was refloated and declared it seaworthy. The Elizabeth D was towed to a nearby mooring location down river to remain overnight along with salvage vessels that assisted in the response operation.
The Elizabeth D will be towed to Neville Island, Penn., Thursday.
"The Coast Guard is committed to ensuring the safe navigation of everyone operating on inland waterways, along with protecting the environment," said Cmdr. John Dittmar, executive officer of Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Pittsburgh. "As a service with a persistent presence in the maritime domain, the Coast Guard is locally based, nationally deployed, and globally connected."
The cause of the grounding is under investigation.
