News Release
M/V Lu-Lu Belle Runs Aground Near Columbia Glacier
For immediate release: August 31, 2023
Valdez, AK – UPDATE: At 9:30 p.m., United States Coast Guard (USCG) personnel arrived at the Valdez airport with the final helicopter transport of M/V Lu-Lu Belle passengers. Valdez EMS crews assisted USCG by evaluating passengers before being released. Valdez Ports and Harbor and Building Maintenance staff assisted with passenger transports back to town. All crew and passengers are accounted for at this time.
At 4:35 p.m. the M/V Lu-Lu Belle ran aground a quarter mile from Columbia Glacier.
United States Coast Guard Sector Command Center Anchorage is coordinating the response and rescue efforts. Passengers are being transported to Valdez for medical evaluation by Valdez Fire Department Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel.
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Contact: Ana Stroup, communications director, 907.834.3400, astroup@valdezak.gov