On January 27th, 2023 a collision between a commercial barge and recreational fishing vessel occurred in the Port O’ Connor area on the ICW. Responding agencies to this event included the United States Coast Guard, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office. Two persons were known to be on the recreational vessel involved in the accident. They were traveling to assist another boat that had run out of gas. Operator1 was at fault for alcohol use (.17 BAC), inadequate navigation lights, and excessive speed.  In addition, no one on V2 was wearing a life jacket. One person was seriously injured and medevaced to a local hospital for care and the second person is still missing.
TPWD has been working closely with Coast Guard personnel on the incident.
Gulf
Port O CoPinner