Shrimper, OSV collide in U.S. Gulf of Mexico

The U.S. Coast Guard yesterday reported it was responding to a vessel collision 18 miles south of Pascagoula Sunday evening.

Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Mobile received a hailing mayday at 10:40 p.m. from a 74-foot shrimping vessel 18 miles south of Pascagoula, Mississippi.

The vessel reported colliding with a 130-foot offshore supply vessel, the Gloria May. All three crew on board the shrimper successfully entered into their life raft and were subsequently picked up by the Gloria May, the USCG said in a statement.

Boatcrews from Coast Guard Station Pascagoula responded in a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium to provide assistance.

The shrimping vessel has sustained significant damage and has approximately 10,000 gallons of diesel and 200 gallons of oil on board. The Gloria May reported minimal damage and no injuries have been reported from either vessel.

“The cause of the collision has yet to be determined, however, the Coast Guard will begin an immediate investigation,” said Lt. j.g. Bradley Parker. The Coast Guard is investigating the cause of the incident.