Barge capsizes at Port Kingstown

Investigations into what caused a barge to overturn while in Port Kingstown are said to be continuing, and an official at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Port Authority says that it may take months before they conclude.{{more}}

According to a release issued by the Port Authority, on Thursday, April 21, at approximately 3am, the barge which contained cement experienced difficulty and capsized while being towed from the Kingstown Harbour.

The release stated that the barge was at the time being towed by a St. Vincent and the Grenadines registered tug vessel, MV Tug America.

One person, whom the release did not identify, was injured in the mishap.

SEARCHLIGHT understands that this injured person is St. Lucian Elton Flavis, who lost all five toes on his left foot.

He is presently a patient in the Male Surgical Ward of the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital.

The Department of Maritime Administration, headed by David Robin, is spearheading the investigations, and has appointed Chief Pilot Ronald Joseph to carry out its investigations.

Findings into the accident could be presented to the Department by the end of the year or sooner.(JJ)