Rescue Talk™
Two Killed, Two Injured in Alaskan Confined Space Incident
Two crew members were killed and two others injured during a confined space incident aboard a barge in southeast Alaska. According to the Coast Guard, the crew entered a confined space and lost contact with others on the tug. Initial information from family indicates methane gas may have been present, though details are still under investigation.
The crew had been preparing the barge ahead of incoming weather when the incident occurred. Other crew members were able to remove one victim and assist the two survivors before rescue teams arrived. The barge was later moved to Ketchikan, where the second victim was recovered after the space was cleared.
The incident occurred approximately 25 miles northwest of Ketchikan while the barge was moored. After losing contact, the tug crew contacted the Coast Guard for assistance and began initial recovery efforts before responders arrived on scene.
One of the deceased was 28-year-old who had recently started working for the company. The two surviving crew members were later reported to be in good condition, and the causes of death have not yet been released.
