June 2, 2026 - A towboat lost power in West Virginia on the Ohio River while pushing 15 loaded coal barges downstream Sunday night.

The incident happened just after 9 p.m.

The U.S. Coast Guard called out the Ravenswood Fire Department, concerned the drifting vessel and barges could strike a nearby bridge.

Nine firefighters responded, launching a boat to make contact with the crew and determine the towboat’s location and condition.

Additional crews stood by at Riverfront Park.

A tugboat arrived and was able to assist, safely securing the tow along the Ohio shoreline near Portland, Ohio.

All units cleared the scene shortly before 11 p.m.

Ravenswood Police, the Jackson County and Meigs County sheriff’s offices, Ripley Volunteer Fire and the West Virginia Department of Highways also responded.