2 Tugboat Crew Members Killed in ‘Fatal Confined Space Incident’ on Barge Off Alaska

**Tragedy Strikes Barge Crew Near Ketchikan, Alaska**

On the morning of Sunday, 15 March, a tragic incident claimed the lives of two tugboat crew members aboard a freight barge off the coast of Ketchikan, Alaska. The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) confirmed that it is currently investigating what has been described as a “fatal confined space incident” involving the barge Waynehoe, located approximately 25 miles northwest of Ketchikan.

The incident unfolded at approximately 9:14 a.m. local time, when watchstanders at the Coast Guard command centre in Juneau received a distress call. The crew of the tug vessel Chukchi Sea reported losing contact with four individuals who were inside a confined space aboard the Waynehoe. In response to the mayday call, a Rescue Boat-Medium crew from Coast Guard Station Ketchikan was deployed, accompanied by members of the South Tongass Volunteer Fire Department.

Following the rescue efforts, the Coast Guard confirmed that two members of the crew had died, while two others were reported to be in stable condition. The deceased individuals were identified as Ben Fowler and Sidney Mohorovich.

Captain Stanley Fields, Commander of Sector Southeast Alaska, expressed his condolences to the families and coworkers affected by the tragedy. In an official statement, he highlighted the dangers associated with confined spaces on vessels, noting that such environments can contain perilous, invisible hazards. He assured the public that the Coast Guard is dedicated to conducting a thorough investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event.

Sidney Mohorovich’s parents, Todd and Eva, revealed to the Associated Press that Coast Guard officials indicated the presence of methane gas in the confined space where the incident occurred. Todd questioned the sequence of events that led multiple crew members into the confined area, expressing uncertainty about whether they entered simultaneously or at different times. He also stated that while the specific source of the methane was unknown, it is a serious concern.

Sidney had recently started working as a large equipment mechanic for Hamilton Marine Construction in Alaska and had been employed there for about a month. At the time of the incident, he was residing in Deming, Washington, with his fiancée, and the couple were looking forward to their wedding in June. His parents reflected on their son’s character, describing him as an “exceptional human being” full of wit and love.

Ben Fowler was also remembered fondly by friends and family, although details surrounding his life were less publicly available. The sense of loss shared by the tight-knit community in Ketchikan is palpable, as both men are mourned by those who knew them.

The USCG’s ongoing investigation aims not only to uncover the circumstances that led to this tragedy but also to inform safety protocols and prevent future occurrences. Confinement-related incidents have garnered attention in recent years, leading safety advocates and maritime professionals to highlight the pressing need for stringent regulations regarding confined spaces on vessels.

As authorities continue to gather information and assess the situation, the community of Ketchikan and the families of those affected are left grappling with the emotional aftermath. While investigations persist, the focus remains on honouring the memories of Benjamin Fowler and Sidney Mohorovich, whose lives were tragically cut short in a workplace incident that raises critical questions about safety in maritime environments.

With the USCG leading the inquiry, it is hoped that lessons will be learned from this incident, ensuring that appropriate measures are taken to safeguard crew members in similar future situations. Families, friends, and the wider community will be looking for answers as they seek closure following the devastating events of that fateful Sunday.