MENU
MENU
Posted in Barge Accidents,Louisiana Maritime News,Maritime Accidents,Maritime Law,Mississippi Maritime News on June 27, 2011
JEFFERSON, La. – A maritime accident took place Tuesday morning , June 21, when a barge worker employed by Zito Fleeting fell from a barge into the Mississippi River.
Harbor police said that Larry Hartford, 52, was working on a barge when he fell into the Mississippi River. Hartford’s co-workers told police the man disappeared after strong winds and heavy rain swept through the area Tuesday morning.
WDSU.com reports:
“I didn’t see him this morning because I wasn’t up until about 6:30 a.m., and he might have already been working, you know,” said neighbor Raymond Hamilton.
Hamilton said Hartford passed by his home every morning while walking to work. He described Hartford as a dedicated employee who loved to talk.
“He’s going to make you talk,” said Hamilton. “He hardly misses a day’s work. That’s one thing about him.”
Eric Smith, energy expert with Tulane University, said Zito Fleeting could still be held responsible, but only if the shipbuilding and repair company violated federally mandated safety rules.
“These are enforced by the Coast Guard, and this pertains to people always having lifejackets on and if they’re operating around the water or wearing the proper equipment,” said Smith.
The incident remains under investigation.
Related Search: