Full Breakdown
Tragic Incident Claims Lives of Two Tugboat Crew Members in Alaska
3/19/2026, 11:20:52 PM
Overview of the Incident
On March 15, 2026, a tragic incident aboard the freight barge Waynehoe, approximately 25 miles northwest of Ketchikan, Alaska, resulted in the deaths of two crew members, identified as Ben Fowler and Sidney Mohorovich. The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) reported that the incident was classified as a "confined space incident," which occurred while the barge was moored. The crew members aboard the tugboat Chukchi Sea lost contact with four individuals inside the confined space, prompting a mayday call at 9:14 a.m. local time.
Response and Recovery Efforts
In response to the mayday call, the USCG launched a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium crew from Coast Guard Station Ketchikan, accompanied by members of the South Tongass Volunteer Fire Department. Upon arrival, the tugboat crew had already recovered one deceased crew member and assisted the two survivors out of the confined space. The barge was subsequently towed to Ketchikan, where the second body was recovered on March 17. The causes of death for both Fowler and Mohorovich have not yet been disclosed, and their bodies have been sent to Anchorage for autopsies.
Details Surrounding the Incident
According to the parents of Sidney Mohorovich, the USCG informed them that high levels of methane gas were present in the confined space. Todd Mohorovich expressed uncertainty about the circumstances leading to the crew members being in that area, questioning whether they entered together or separately. He noted that his son had communicated concerns about impending bad weather the night before the incident, indicating that the crew was preparing to secure the barge.
Official Statements
Captain Stanley Fields, Commander of Sector Southeast Alaska, extended condolences to the families and colleagues affected by the incident, emphasizing the dangers associated with confined spaces on vessels. He stated, “This is a heartbreaking reminder that confined spaces on vessels can contain extremely dangerous, invisible hazards.” The Coast Guard has committed to a thorough investigation to understand the circumstances of the incident and prevent future tragedies.
Personal Reflections
Sidney Mohorovich, 28, had recently begun working as a large equipment mechanic with Hamilton Marine Construction and was living in Deming, Washington, with his fiancée, with whom he was planning a June wedding. His parents described him as an exceptional individual, stating, “He was loved by so many... just an exceptional human being, smarty, witty, funny, loving.” They expressed gratitude for the time they shared with him, despite the tragedy.
Criticism & Opposition
While the investigation is ongoing, there has been no public dissent regarding the incident. However, concerns about safety protocols in confined spaces on vessels have been highlighted, particularly regarding the presence of hazardous gases like methane, which can pose significant risks to crew members.
What's Next
The USCG's investigation will focus on the events leading up to the incident, including the safety measures in place aboard the Waynehoe and the protocols followed by the crew. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses and autopsy results are released.
