Freighter Pac Dubhe and Bulker African Buzzard Collide and Entangle on Mississippi River near Hahnville

Two vessels collided and remain locked together on the Mississippi River near Hahnville, Louisiana, approximately 25 miles upriver from New Orleans, following a meeting accident on the afternoon of March 23.

The downbound freighter Pac Dubhe, bound for Panama, and the upbound geared bulker African Buzzard collided at approximately 1550 local time near mile marker 124. African Buzzard's anchor became embedded in the bow of Pac Dubhe, entangling the two vessels. African Buzzard subsequently drifted out of the channel and went aground.

No injuries or pollution were reported. A speed restriction has been imposed in the area of the collision. AIS data confirms multiple tugs are present in the vicinity and assisting at the scene.

The U.S. Coast Guard and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched a joint investigation into the cause of the incident.