5 rescued by Coast Guard after tugboat loses steering off Washington coast

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- Five people were rescued off the Washington coast after their commercial tugboat lost steering while towing a concrete barge late Friday afternoon.

Just after 4 p.m., Coast Guard officials say the crew of the Luther requested rescue after their 130-foot tugboat lost its steering amid high winds and waves 10 miles off the coast of La Push.

A motor lifeboat crew from the area, an emergency tug, as well as crews from Coast Guard Air Station Astoria were then launched.

Because the Luther soon began taking on water, the crew disconnected the barge and managed to stay afloat while preparing for a tow from the emergency tug.

However, while the tow was being set up, officials say the barge nearly collided with the Luther, so the crew was put on another emergency lifeboat.

Since the first tow was unsuccessful, more area crews responded and were able to prevent the Luther from running aground near the shoreline.

Officials say no injuries were reported.

The Coast Guard also noted they are working to find the missing barge.