Oil Spill Spotted Near Bulk Carrier In Baltimore, Investigation Underway

The United States Coast Guard has begun an investigation into a possible oil spill after discovering a 50-foot by 50-foot oil spill near the 623-foot Liberian-flagged bulk carrier Motor Vessel SSI Defiant in the Patapsco River on September 26, 2024.

Authorities have formed a precautionary 1,500-foot safety zone around the vessel as they investigate the nature and cause of the sheen.

The incident was first reported at 6:24 p.m. by Maryland Pilot Dispatch, who notified Coast Guard watchstanders of the unknown sheen surrounding the vessel, which happened after what has been termed as a “propulsion casualty.”

In response, the Coast Guard, in collaboration with the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) and other partner agencies, has begun conducting inspections aboard the anchored vessel in Baltimore Inner Harbor.

The Coast Guard authorities stated they are monitoring and supervising the vessel’s pollution response measures to ensure environmental protection. They said the cause of the oil sheen is unknown at this time, and investigations are still underway.

Aerial surveys of the affected region have already been conducted, and additional overflights are planned, weather permitting. As of Saturday, the bulk carrier SSI Defiant remained anchored in Baltimore.

Reference: U.S. Coast Guard

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