The Coast Guard is investigating a peculiar incident in Lake Superior involving a large cargo ship. The vessel sustained damage to its hull after colliding with an unidentified object beneath the water.
The ship experienced flooding and began to list to one side. The Michipicoten, a Canadian bulk carrier measuring 689ft, was transporting low-grade iron ore when the mishap occurred. The cause of the collision remains unknown.
Following the incident, half of the 22 crew members were evacuated with no reported injuries. The vessel has been safely anchored off Thunder Bay, Ontario, awaiting repairs and further investigation into the incident.
Lorne Thomas, the chief of external affairs for the Ninth Coast Guard District, mentioned that investigators are working to determine the nature of the damage to the hull, whether it resulted from grounding, a collision with an object, or a hull collapse.
The U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes seized the vessel involved, stating on social media that the ship struck something underwater. The incident occurred as the ship was en route from Two Harbors, Minnesota, to Thunder Bay, Canada.
The crew managed to control the flooding using water pumps, reducing the list of the vessel to just 5 degrees. Lt. Joseph Snyder of the Coast Guard noted that flooded areas were not crucial living or cargo spaces on the ship.
Coast Guard assets, including helicopters and an emergency boat, were deployed to assist with the situation. Collaboration with the National Park Service facilitated the safe transfer of crew members off the Michipicoten.
Speculation about the incident has ignited online discussion, with some humorously suggesting various scenarios. The incident has sparked interest akin to a maritime UFO mystery.
VesselFinder lists the Michipicoten as an automated bulk carrier constructed in 1952.