​On April 15, 2023, about 2120 central daylight time, three empty hopper barges broke free of their moorings, drifted across Hickman Harbor, and struck the 75-foot-long US Coast Guard Cutter Chena and its barge CGB-71, which were moored on the left descending bank of the Lower Mississippi River at mile 922 near Hickman, Kentucky. The cutter and its barge sustained damage. No injuries or pollution were reported.

The accident was classified by the US Coast Guard as a public/nonpublic casualty. The NTSB led the investigation.

​​​Our preliminary investigation found that the actions of the Coast Guard were not material and did not contribute to the casualty, nor were any other significant transportation safety issues identified. The Office of Marine Safety has determined that additional investigation and use of resources is not warranted at this time. We have produced an investigation close-out memorandum.