Anticipating a strong cross-current that never materialized, an experienced tow pilot deviated from the sailing line on the Mississippi River and struck components of the Fort Madison Bridge near Fort Madison, Iowa,
Barges IN122011 and IN155499 immediately after impact blocking the primary channel. The Joe B. Wyatt is shown in the background. [Source: U.S. Coast Guard]
Anticipating a strong cross-current that never materialized, an experienced tow pilot deviated from the sailing line on the Mississippi River and struck components of the Fort Madison Bridge near Fort Madison, Iowa, the National Transportation Safety Board said Tuesday.
The 1982-built, 158-foot towboat Joe B. Wyatt, owned and operated by Ingram Barge Company, was pushing 13 loaded hopper barges and two empty tank barges downriver on May 9, 2024, when the tow struck the bridge’s protection cell and fendering system and broke apart. No injuries or pollution were reported. Damage to the protection cell, fendering system, barges and the Joe B. Wyatt was estimated at $3.28 million.
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