Ferry’s Grounding Blaming On Captain

Tue., Aug. 6, 1996

Compiled From Wire Services

The grounding of a Washington state ferry off San Juan Island last month was caused by the captain’s negligence, the U.S. Coast Guard alleged Monday.

“No evidence of mechanical failure or malfunction has been found which may have contributed to this casualty. However, there is sufficient evidence to question the actions and orders of the vessel’s captain,” said Lt. Manny Perez, an investigator with the Coast Guard’s Marine Safety Office.

The Coast Guard said it has filed charges of misconduct, negligence and violation of regulations against the captain, whose name was not released.

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