Maritime traffic along the Mississippi River in Louisiana is getting back to normal after three ships collided about 60 miles west of New Orleans. The Coast Guard is escorting ships between New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
For some reason, a 751-foot-long bulk carrier broke free from its mooring Monday. It drifted a bit before slamming into a towing vessel, which then took on water and grounded on the river bank.
The carrier continued downriver and struck a tanker. That vessel was discharging fuel at the time. It broke away but was ultimately anchored by two tug boats. About 420 gallons of crude spilled into the river, closing a nine-mile section. No injuries have been reported.