re: Boat Crash this weekend near St Francisville, passenger still missing

quote:

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How does one hit a moving barge!

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I'll try to explain, but I'll begin with it is foolish to be on the lower Mississippi river at night in a small boat. There are partially submerged trees and debris that float at the surface with only inches exposed above the waterline. Even in during the day, I would keep a spare prop onboard for stuff like that when I go.

Drinking, poor lighting, no life vest, and other contributing factors only increase the risks.

Back to the barges. Towboats are tugs that actually push the barges up and down the river. The barges are connected by cables and the "tow" can be very long, even hundreds of feet. Many times these tows are many times wider than the tug. The tug is well lit, makes a lot of noise, and are pretty easy to see. The barges not so much. Once you get alongside the barges and begin to overtake it the sounds die out and you are way below all of the lights. It would be possible to think you were past the front of the barges and turn into the side.

Towboats and their barges also displace a lot of water, so it's also a rough ride in the wake.

Who knows the real story? Prayers for the families. I hope the recovery helps them deal with the loss. It's been hot out there. Thanks to the Cajun Navy and the LDWF agents that have been out there everyday.