Deadly Incident on Alaska Barge Claims Lives of Two Tugboat Crew Members
Over the last weekend, a tragic incident occurred on a barge docked in southeast Alaska. In what was described as a "confined space incident", two tugboat crew members lost their lives, and two others were injured.
The barge was anchored around 25 miles (40 kilometers) northwest of Ketchikan. The unfortunate incident took place when the crew members were in a confined space, and suddenly, their colleagues lost all communication with them.
Methane Gas: A Silent Killer
Parents of one of the victims, Sidney Mohorovich, revealed that they were informed about the presence of methane gas in the confined space. "We're unclear about the sequence of events that led to everyone being in that confined space. It's unknown whether they all entered together or at different times," said Todd Mohorovich, Sidney's father. He further explained that the confined space contained high levels of methane gas, though the origin of the gas remains unknown.
Sidney last spoke with his parents on the previous Saturday night, discussing the upcoming storm. He mentioned that the barge was located in a position where they could seek shelter from the storm. The crew had planned to carry out routine deck tasks to prepare for the storm.
Confined Space: An Unseen Danger
A "confined space" on a ship is defined by federal regulations as a compartment with small size and limited access. This could be a double-bottom tank or other space that, due to its small size and confined nature, can easily create or intensify a hazardous exposure, including a lack of oxygen.
When the incident occurred, the tugboat crew quickly contacted the Coast Guard for assistance. They managed to recover one of the deceased crew members and helped the two survivors out before the rescue team arrived.
Aftermath of the Incident
Following the incident, the barge was towed to Ketchikan. There, the confined space was securely cleared for the recovery of the second deceased crew member. The cause of death has not been disclosed, and the bodies have been sent to Anchorage for autopsies.
About the Victims
Sidney Mohorovich, 28, just started his new job with a marine construction company a month ago. He was a large equipment mechanic working his first job in Alaska. Sidney lived in Deming, Washington, with his fiancée, and they were planning a June wedding. He was previously a logger and welder, and had also learned building and electrical work. "He could pretty much figure anything out," his mother said.
"He was loved by so many. Just an exceptional human being, smart, witty, funny, loving," said Eva Mohorovich, Sidney's mother. His father added that Sidney was always ready to help those in need and was unselfish in many ways. "We're just really thankful for who he was. I wouldn't change a thing in the life that we've all shared together, despite this tragedy."
The conditions of the two survivors are reported to be good. The other crew member who lost his life was identified as Ben Fowler.