Not a good way to start the day.........

Office of Public Affairs
U.S. Coast Guard Thirteenth District


Press Release Date: Dec. 4, 2005

Contact: Sector Portland
(503) 240-9301

COAST GUARD RESPONDS TO CAPSIZED TUG

SEATTLE - The Coast Guard is responding to a tug that capsized after
taking a barge in tow near Astoria, Ore.

Two commercial tugs successfully took a log barge in tow after it was
reported drifting at 8 p.m., by a pilot boat in the area.

While attempting to secure the barge, one of the tugs capsized and was
lodged underneath the barge.

One person entered the water when the tug capsized and was rescued by
two fellow crewmembers and personnel from the pilot boat.

Later, all three were transported to Columbia Memorial Hospital in
Astoria.

The barge and capsized tug have been moved to Youngs Bay, Ore., with
two tugs standing by to assist as needed.

Although there is no evidence that fuel or oil is leaking from the tug,
protective boom has been placed around the tug. In addition, personnel
from Coast Guard Sector Portland, Ore., are assessing pollution hazards
and working with the tugboat's owners to develop a salvage plan.

The Coast Guard is coordinating with the Washington Department of
Ecology and the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality.

The Coast Guard is also investigating the cause of the capsizing.

For more information in this case contact Sector Portland at (503)
240-9301.


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The U.S. Coast Guard is a military, maritime, multi-mission service
within the
Department of Homeland Security dedicated to protecting the safety and
security of America.