Fire Disables Cargo Ship

The Coast Guard was ready to assist a 670-ft.- container ship after the vessel experienced an electrical fire Sunday evening. The CSX Expedition, transiting from Tacoma to Anchorage, experienced a switchboard fire leaving it disabled and adrift. The CSX Expedition is 180 miles southwest of Sitka and 140 miles from nearest land. None of the 27-crewmembers on board suffered any injuries. The ship is carrying general refrigerated cargo. The crew is actively working to repair the ship and sail again. If the crew can’t repair the ship, a commercial vessel will depart port today at 9 a.m. to tow the ship to shore. The Coast Guard cutter Maple, Air Station Sitka and Air Station Kodiak are standing by ready to assist the mariners if needed. The weather conditions are favorable including calm seas and clear visibility.