Tug Sinks in Tennessee River Resulting in Fuel Spill

4,000 gallons of diesel fuel has been contained on the Tennessee River after a tugboat sank in one of its embankments. The vessel, owned by New Johnsonville Marine Service, was found partially sunk on Monday morning.

Officials said there were possibly 4,000 gallons of fuel on board, most of which leaked into the water. Divers were called in to seal the source of the leak, according to local news reports.

The spill was contained in a small area by booms. A drum skimmer was also brought in to suck the oil up out of the water. It was believed the fuel did not enter the main river course, but stayed in an area of about 300 yards by 300 yards.

Clean-up companies were called in, along with the U.S. Coast Guard for assistance.

An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the sinking. No injuries were reported in this incident. A plan to remove the tug from the water has not been confirmed.