The United States Coast Guard (USCG) is continuing its search for two fisherman missing from a collision with the chemical tanker Bow Fortune in Galveston, which happened while the tanker was under pilotage according to owners Odfjell tankers.
The collision at 15-55hours on Tuesday in Galveston Bay between the 37,395 dwt Bow Fortune and the fishing vessel Pappy Pride left one dead and two missing.
“Despite the life saving efforts of our crew, the gentleman was later pronounced deceased by the medical examiner’s office,” USCG Sector Houston-Galveston Search and Rescue Mission Coordinator, Cmdr. Jordan Baldueza, said.
One person was rescued, who is reported to have non-life threatening injuries. The USCG said it was continuing the search for the two missing from the fishing vessel on Wednesday.
Owners of the Bow Fortune, Odfjell Tankers, in a statement issued on the incident, said, “At the time of the incident, Bow Fortune was inbound and under pilotage as first vessel in a convoy. At the time of the incident, there was heavy fog in the area.
“Tragically, we have received reports that one of the four crew members onboard the fishing boat has lost his life. We are saddened by this information, and wish to express our heartfelt condolences to his family. We are also deeply concerned about the reports that two of the crew members on the fishing boat are still missing.”
The Bow Fortune is currently moored in Galveston and the incident is under investigation.
“Odfjell takes this matter very seriously. Together with the P&I club Gard, we cooperate fully with US authorities to ensure that we initiate all necessary actions,” the Norwegian shipowner said.