A dramatic maritime rescue operation conducted by the Coast Guard near the U.S. Virgin Islands, highlighting their swift response to a sinking cargo ship and ongoing efforts to address environmental concerns. The news.uscg.mil source.
- The Coast Guard rescues 12 people from the sinking M/V Bonnie G near St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands.
- No injuries were reported, and the Coast Guard swiftly responded to the distress call, bringing the survivors to safety.
- Ongoing efforts include assessing pollution risks and investigating the incident’s causal factors to ensure maritime safety and environmental protection.
Dramatic Rescue at Sea
In a dramatic early morning operation, the U.S. Coast Guard successfully rescued 12 individuals from the M/V Bonnie G, a Vanuatu-flagged cargo vessel, which ran aground and began taking on water just south of the airport in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands.
Swift Response Saves Lives
The Coast Guard’s Sector San Juan received a distress call from the Bonnie G at 3:41 a.m., reporting that the vessel was rapidly filling with water in the engine room. The crew onboard had no choice but to abandon ship, taking refuge on two life rafts and a lifeboat. Responding promptly, the Coast Guard issued an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast to alert nearby vessels and launched a rescue mission using a 33-foot Special Purpose Craft.
Safe Harbor for All
Miraculously, all 12 passengers aboard the Bonnie G were safely rescued without any reported injuries. The Coast Guard boat crew swiftly embarked the survivors and transported them to Crown Bay Marina, ensuring their well-being after this harrowing ordeal.
Environmental Concerns and Ongoing Investigation
While the immediate threat to human life has been averted, the focus now turns to environmental concerns. The Bonnie G was carrying approximately 13,000 gallons of fuel and 250 gallons of lube oil, in addition to cargo that included vehicles and cargo pallets. Coast Guard personnel, along with the Bonnie G’s company, are diligently assessing the pollution threat to the pristine waters of the U.S. Virgin Islands.
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Source-news.uscg.mil
