A section of the Ohio River near Pittsburgh remains closed to maritime traffic as crews equipped with sonar search for a barge believed to have sunk over the weekend, among the more than two dozen barges that broke loose and floated downstream. The U.S. Coast Guard has launched an investigation into the incident, which caused significant damage to a marina and raised concerns about potential pollution in the river.

Late Friday, a total of 26 river barges somehow became untethered from their moorings, with only three of them remaining secured. The loose barges, carrying coal, fertilizer, and other dry cargo, collided with a bridge, causing extensive damage. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and there were no spills of hazardous materials.

Investigators from the Coast Guard are considering the possibility of high water levels, caused by recent heavy rains and flooding in the area, as a potential cause or contributing factor. One of the loose barges struck the Sewickley Bridge on Saturday, resulting in a temporary closure for inspection. Fortunately, no significant damage was found, and the bridge has since been reopened to traffic.

Efforts to retrieve the loose barges are underway, with eleven of them pinned against the river bank and contained by a tugboat. Additionally, nine barges have been secured at the Emsworth lock and dam downstream. However, one barge still remains unaccounted for, causing authorities to continue their search. Commander Justin Jolley of the Coast Guard marine safety unit in Pittsburgh expressed optimism that they will locate the missing barge soon, allowing them to restore navigation in the area.

While no major infrastructure damage was reported, Peggy's Harbor, a family-owned marina on the Ohio River, suffered significant damage. The extent of the damage is currently uncertain, as the marina declined to comment when reached over the phone.

The Campbell Transportation Co., which owned or operated the barges, has its officials onsite to assess the situation but was not immediately available for comment. The American Waterways Operators, a trade group representing tugboat and barge companies, stated that they await the completion of the investigation to gain further insight into the incident. According to the group, barges safely transport 58 million tons of cargo along Pennsylvania waterways each year.

As the investigation continues, authorities are working on a salvage plan to recover the remaining barges and prevent any potential environmental impact. The closure of the Ohio River remains in effect until the missing barge is located and maritime traffic can safely resume.

The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges and risks associated with river transportation, especially during periods of extreme weather. The findings from the investigation will shed light on the causes of this incident and help prevent similar incidents in the future.