The Coast Guard is investigating a deadly confined-space incident that occurred Sunday, March 15, 2026, aboard the freight barge Waynehoe near Skowl Arm, about 25 miles northwest of Ketchikan, Alaska.
Four crewmembers were involved: two died, and two others are in stable condition. A mayday call was received at 9:14 a.m. after the tug Chukchi Sea lost contact with the workers inside the confined space.
Before rescue teams arrived, the tug crew recovered one deceased crewmember and helped rescue two others. The barge was later towed to Ketchikan, where a multi-agency team recovered the second victim’s body on Tuesday.
At GLP Attorneys, we extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of the victims during this incredibly difficult time.
What is a Confined Space Accident?
A confined space incident is a serious emergency that occurs in an area not designed for continuous human occupancy and that has limited means of entry or exit, often including storage tanks, silos, tunnels and trenches, wells, or vaults. On ships, these spaces can exist within the hull, including service areas when hatchways are closed. These incidents are not limited to the maritime industry; they can happen across a wide range of industries, including construction, tanker trucks used in transportation, and some workplaces. Premises liability cases can also arise from any confined space on a public or residential property, including attics and crawlspaces. Anyone working in a confined space should be briefed on the dangers before work begins, and the workplace should have safety policies and procedures in place to prevent incidents.
The Risks of The Maritime Industry
The maritime industry is widely recognized as one of the most dangerous in the world. Maritime workers face a unique combination of risks, including extreme weather conditions, heavy machinery, confined spaces, long shifts, and the constant movement of vessels at sea. These factors create an environment where accidents with devastating consequences can happen quickly.
When injuries occur, the legal landscape can be complex, often involving specialized maritime laws and regulations that differ from standard workplace injury claims. Working with an experienced maritime injury attorney can be the critical difference in protecting a victim’s rights, navigating unique legal frameworks, and pursuing the full compensation one deserves for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Contact an Experienced Maritime Personal Injury Lawyer Today
If you have been injured at sea, it is recommended that you speak with an experienced maritime personal injury attorney.
Injury at Sea has more than 80 years of combined experience representing clients located in Washington, Oregon, Alaska, and California in various maritime injury-related cases.
Contact our maritime attorneys – Jim Gooding or Matt Cole – today for a free consultation at 1-800-SEA-SALT.