NEW ORLEANS - The Coast Guard and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) marine casualty investigators are probing a barge collision with the Bayou Ramos Bridge near Morgan City and Amelia, La., on Dec. 23. A towing vessel pushing six barges was traveling southeast along the Avoca Island Cutoff when one of the lead barges struck the bridge. CG personnel at Marine Safety Unit Morgan City received notification about damage hours later and identified the responsible party. The Louisiana Department of Transportation determined to close the bridge that day due to significant damage and safety concerns. The barge was also damaged. There were no reports of injury and the incident has been declared a major marine casualty due to property damage estimated at $500,000-plus. The investigation is ongoing. CG and NTSB investigators are working together to gather and analyze evidence to determine factors that led to the incident, and if acts of misconduct, incompetence, negligence, or violations of federal law were committed. Once the investigation is complete, both agencies will issue independent reports. Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact MSU-Morgan City at MCIO@uscg.mil. If anyone has questions/concerns regarding the bridge or its closure can call the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development at 1-800-256-1817. (Source: CG District 8 01/05/22) Photo of damaged bridge DVIDS - Images - Coast Guard, NTSB investigating Bayou Ramos Bridge damage (dvidshub.net)
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