Tow Pilot’s Distraction and Fatigue Lead to Collision on Mississippi River

A tow pilot distracted by personal cell phone use and suffering from fatigue caused a significant collision with moored barges on the lower Mississippi River last year, according to a National Transportation Safety Board report released Thursday.

The incident occurred on April 17, 2024, when the towing vessel William B Klunk struck moored barges at a fleeting area near Baton Rouge. The collision caused extensive damage to vessels and infrastructure with estimated costs reaching $810,000.

NTSB investigators revealed that the pilot failed to make necessary adjustments in the moments leading up to the collision. Onboard footage showed him using his personal cell phone just before impact, neglecting his primary task of safely navigating the vessel.

Fatigue was identified as a significant contributing factor, with the pilot having minimal sleep in the hours leading up to the incident. The report emphasized the dangers of distraction and diminished vigilance due to fatigue.

The NTSB report highlighted the growing trend of maritime accidents caused by electronic distractions and crew fatigue. Similar incidents in recent years have underscored the importance of maintaining a proper lookout and avoiding distractions while operating vessels.

For more details on the investigation, refer to the Marine Investigation Report 25-26.