Update February 2, 2020
It is now confirmed that the two missing fishermen were found dead when the fishing vessel Pappy’s Pride was salvaged last Thursday, January 30.
We are deeply saddened that three persons have lost their lives following the collision of the fishing vessel with Bow Fortune in the entrance to Galveston Bay on Thursday January 14. Our sincere condolences go to their families, friends and colleagues.
The cause of the collision is under investigation, and we are fully supporting and contributing to the efforts of the United States Coast Guard and National Transportation Safety Board to establish the course of events that led to this terrible incident.
Update January 14, 2020
At 15:55 local time Tuesday January 14, our chemical tanker Bow Fortune reported that it had made contact with a fishing boat in Galveston Bay entrance. 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. One crew member is reported rescued, with non-life threatening injuries.
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.
Bow Fortune is currently moored in Galveston. The crew onboard is safe and accounted for. Bow Fortune’s integrity is intact and there is no pollution stemming from the ship.
The cause of the collision will be subject to investigation. Odfjell will fully support and contribute to this investigation.
Contact:
Anngun Dybsland, Head of Communications
Email: media@odfjell.com
Tel. +47 41 54 88 54 (Norway)
