More than two dozen river barges broke loose from their moorings and floated down the Ohio River in Pittsburgh, striking one bridge that had already been preemptively closed and causing damage to a marina. The incident occurred after heavy rains in the area led to flooding, with 26 barges breaking free and floating down the river. Pittsburgh police, fire, and emergency medical services responded to reports of the barges floating uncontrolled, eventually leading to one barge striking the Sewickley Bridge and causing it to be temporarily closed.
Officials in Moon Township announced the temporary closure of the Sewickley Bridge due to an unmanned barge passing through. The Coast Guard marine safety unit in Pittsburgh quickly contained eleven of the barges to one side with another towing vessel downstream. Nine other barges were collected at the Emsworth lock and dam, while five or six barges went through the dam. Efforts were made to stabilize the barges that ended up downstream, with marine safety units searching for one barge that was unaccounted for.
Pittsburgh public safety officials reported damage to Peggy’s Harbor, a marina on the river, as a result of the loose barges. The McKees Rocks Bridge was also temporarily closed as a precaution but later reopened following inspection. The barges were carrying a variety of cargo, including coal and fertilizer, with no hazardous materials on board. The Coast Guard issued a broadcast notice to mariners to alert them about the situation, although high water levels prevented river traffic.
The barges involved in the incident were owned or operated by Campbell Transportation Co., and the Coast Guard was working with the owner on a salvage plan. Pennsylvania State Police and other agencies were also alerted to the situation. This incident highlights the vulnerability of bridges to strikes from barges and ships, with a recent example in Baltimore where a container ship rammed a bridge support, causing the collapse of the span and resulting in fatalities among road workers. Efforts are underway to address the aftermath of the loose barges and prevent similar incidents in the future.
