CRIME
Kentucky: Barges Carrying Corn, Methanol, and Soy Stuck in Ohio River After Towing Vessel hit Structure Near McAlpine Locks, Tanks now Partially Submerged
Several barges, one of which contains methanol, broke free from a tugboat early Tuesday, and three became stuck at the McAlpine Locks and Dam on the Ohio River in Louisville, Ky., officials said.
A vessel towing 11 barges hit a structure at the entrance to the Portland Canal near the McAlpine Locks and Dam at around 2 a.m. Tuesday, according to a statement from the Louisville Metro Government Emergency Management Agency. Some of the barges were carrying soy and corn, officials said, while one was carrying approximately 1,400 metric tons of methanol.
“There is currently zero evidence of a tank breach or any leaks, and air and water monitoring resources are in place,” the agency said. The Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet is currently monitoring water quality while environmental consulting firm CTEH is monitoring air quality, the agency said.
Photos shared by the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet show partially crushed and partially submerged barges resting against a structure Tuesday.
The citys Emergency Management Agency is leading a unified command including U.S. Coast Guard Sector Ohio Valley, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources and Ohio River Valley Water Sanitation Commission (ORSANCO), and Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet.
The agency said the river waterway is open, with local vessel traffic services.
