PITTSBURGH, PA – Law enforcement agencies are currently investigating a concerning incident that occurred on the Ohio River, where over 20 barges broke loose from their moorings and drifted downstream. The Pittsburgh district commander of the Army Corp of Engineers confirmed that all 26 barges have been located, with some of them coming to rest against the Emsworth Lock and Dam.
The Pittsburgh Police received a call regarding the runaway barges late on a Friday night, with the U.S. Coast Guard reporting that 23 of the barges were loaded with dry cargo like coal, while three were empty. Fortunately, no hazardous materials were being transported, and there have been no reports of pollution or contamination from the incident.
Eleven of the barges managed to come to a stop along the riverbank near Brunot Island, where they are now being secured by a tugboat. Additionally, nine of the barges halted at the Emsworth Lock and Dam, while the remaining six made it through the dam and continued downstream. Unfortunately, one of the six is believed to have sunk during the ordeal.
As a result of the barges breaking loose, Peggy’s Marina suffered significant damage, along with other docks in the vicinity. The incident is currently under investigation, with authorities citing high water levels as a contributing factor. The barges are owned and operated by the Campbell Transportation Company.
Despite the initial closures, the bridges affected by the incident have since reopened, allowing traffic to resume as usual. Efforts are underway to address the damages caused and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.