August 3rd 2006
In what can only be described as a tragic turn of events, a naval architect on the salvage team working to stabilize the Mazda-laden cargo ship, Cougar Ace, was killed after he lost his footing and fell on Monday.
Seattle area resident Marty Johnson, age 40, had completed a survey of the vessel with his team and was preparing to disembark when he slipped and fell approximately 80 feet. He was knocked unconscious and attempts to resuscitate him on board were unsuccessful. He was taken by helicopter to the US Coast Guard Cutter Morgenthau, where he was pronounced dead.
This horrific episode illustrates just how dangerous the Cougar Ace salvage operation is. Our condolences go out to Mr. Johnson's family.