On January 7, 2019, about 2030 local time, the towing vessel Tom Bussler was transiting in light boat condition (no tow) upbound on the Tennessee River at mile 15 near Calvert City, Kentucky, when the vessel began flooding and quickly sank in the channel. Both crewmembers aboard abandoned the vessel into the river and were rescued by a Good Samaritan vessel. No pollution or injuries were reported. Damage to the vessel was estimated at $297,368, and it was scrapped.
The probable cause of the flooding and sinking of the tugboat Tom Bussler was the company’s lack of an effective hull maintenance and repair program, which resulted in flooding into the bow voids and engine room through fractures in the hull.
Effective Hull Inspection and Maintenance
To protect vessels and the environment, it is good marine practice for owners to conduct
regular oversight and maintenance of hulls, including between drydock periods. Regardless
of inspection requirements, owners are obligated to ensure vessels are properly maintained,
equipped, and operated in a safe condition. Issues with watertight integrity and wastage
should be addressed immediately.
