Lee III Investigation Concludes

The formal U.S. Coast Guard-led investigation into the collision between the offshore supply vessel Lee III and the motor vessel ZIM Mexico III concluded today at the Hyatt Regency on Poydras Street. The fact-finding inquiry, which was presided over by a one-person board, began March 2. Since the investigation convened, 14 people have testified before the investigating officer, including the master of the ZIM Mexico III, Capt. Leszek Jaworski and the pilot of the ZIM Mexico III, Greg Blache. During the board, 86 exhibits were entered into evidence. All facts will be compiled into a preliminary report during the next few months and forwarded through the Eighth Coast Guard District then onto Coast Guard Headquarters for final review. The proceedings were open to the public and the media.