Full Breakdown
Tragic Confined Space Incident Claims Lives of Tugboat Crew in Alaska
3/19/2026, 6:42:51 AM
Incident Overview
On Sunday morning, a confined space incident aboard the freight barge Waynehoe, moored approximately 25 miles northwest of Ketchikan, Alaska, resulted in the deaths of two crew members from the tugboat Chukchi Sea. The U.S. Coast Guard reported that four crew members lost contact while working in a confined area, prompting a mayday call at 9:14 a.m. The Coast Guard dispatched a rescue crew, which managed to recover one deceased crew member and assist two others before the barge was towed to Ketchikan for further recovery efforts.
Victims Identified
The two deceased crew members were identified as 21-year-old Ben Fowler from Sitka, Alaska, and 28-year-old Sidney Mohorovich from Deming, Washington. Mohorovich had recently begun working for Hamilton Marine Construction and was preparing for his wedding in June. Family members described both men as exceptional individuals, with Mohorovich's mother highlighting his friendly and generous nature, while Fowler's sister expressed her devastation over the loss.
Circumstances of the Incident
According to reports, the confined space where the incident occurred may have contained high levels of methane gas, although the Coast Guard has not confirmed this detail. The crew was reportedly conducting routine deck maintenance when they entered the confined area, which is defined by federal regulations as a compartment that can create hazardous conditions due to its limited access and size. The exact sequence of events leading to the crew members being in the confined space remains unclear.
Official Statements
Coast Guard Capt. Stanley Fields expressed condolences to the families of the victims, stating, “This is a heartbreaking reminder that confined spaces on vessels can contain extremely dangerous, invisible hazards.” The Coast Guard is committed to conducting a thorough investigation to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident and to prevent future tragedies.
Family Reactions
The families of the victims have expressed their shock and grief. Sidney Mohorovich's fiancée, Emily Brendle, described him as a great man who had a profound impact on her life. Todd Mohorovich, Sidney's father, reflected on his son's generous spirit and the far-reaching impact of his life. Similarly, Juel Fowler, Ben's sister, shared memories of her brother's joyful and adventurous spirit, emphasizing the deep loss felt by their family.
What's Next
As investigations continue, autopsy results for the deceased crew members are pending, and the Coast Guard is expected to release further findings regarding the incident. The two surviving crew members are reported to be in good condition following the incident.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Stanley Fields, Commander of Sector Southeast Alaska, said “Our deepest condolences are with the families and colleagues of the crewmembers affected by this tragic incident.” — Capt. Stanley Fields, U.S. Coast Guard
- “He was the epitome of just an exceptional human being,” — Eva Mohorovich, Mother of Sidney Mohorovich
- “I am absolutely devastated, to be honest with you,” — Juel Fowler, Sister of Ben Fowler
- “We’re just really thankful for who he was,” — Todd Mohorovich, Father of Sidney Mohorovich
