Last Four "Bow Mariner" Survivors Talk

Published Jun 24, 2004 12:01 AM by The Maritime Executive

The "Bow Mariner" exploded on February 28, 2004, approximate 50 miles off Virginia's Eastern Shore, killing 21. The cause of the explosion is still unknown.

Two of the survivors voluntarily gave the USCG statements very soon after the explosion. The State Department kept the last four survivors from leaving the country on appeals from the USCG while negotations continued with them.

They have now all provided testimony to a federal grand jury. However, their testimonies will remain secret until the investigation is completed. USCG Marine Safety Office in Virginia has said the survivors provided important information, which will hopefully provide new recommendations for improving safety on LNG ships.

The investigation may take as long as a year to complete.