The Coast Guard, working with the National Transportation & Safety Board  (NTSB) will receive testimony about the accident. The Coast Guard’s Investigations National Center of Expertise is also providing investigative assistance.

The purpose of the Coast Guard marine casualty investigation and formal board hearing is to examine the causes, make recommendations to help avoid a similar incident, improve overall maritime transportation safety, and promote safety of life and property at sea. The investigation and formal board are not intended to fix civil or criminal responsibility.

The bridge’s second span from the east collapsed when it was struck by the Delta Mariner. There were no deaths or injuries associated with the incident. The crew of the Delta Mariner were all tested for drug and alcohol use with negative results.