Watch Now


Ship strikes bridge in St. Joseph, Mich.

Ship strikes bridge in St. Joseph, Mich.

The U.S. Coast Guard said it is investigating an allision of a ship with a bridge on the St. Joseph River, which occurred shortly before 8 a.m. Tuesday.

   Manistee, a 620-foot-long U.S.-flag freighter, struck a CSX swing bridge. The Coast Guard immediately contacted the owners of the bridge, who found evidence of damage to the bridge's fendering system.

   Structural engineers have determined that the bridge can safely carry rail traffic. The ship, which was empty, sustained minor damage and did not take on water. No pollution or injuries were reported.

   The Coast Guard is interviewing witnesses and the vessel's crew, and has begun the required drug and alcohol testing.