March 16--An oily fuel slick that appeared at the Port of Los Angeles on Sunday was probably caused by faulty piping on a cargo ship, according to the Coast Guard.
Officials said a leaking pipe on the starboard side of the 577-foot cargo ship Istra Ace appears to have been the source of the spill. The docked ship was reported to have been leaking heavy fuel in the Cerritos Channel.
The leak has been repaired, according to Coast Guard Petty Officer Sondra-Kay Kneen.
The spill was reported about 6:30 p.m. Sunday. Crews used sweepers, absorbent pads and 17,200 feet of containment boom to keep the fuel from spreading to other areas of the channel, the shoreline, nearby vessels, docks and pilings.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife's Office of Spill Prevention and Response reported that at least six oiled birds were found. To report oiled wildlife, call (877) 823-6926.
Recreational and commercial vessel traffic was restricted around the spill area to avoid possible contamination and allow clean-up efforts to begin.
The Coast Guard and Fish and Wildlife officials are working with Istra Ace to monitor the area.
Anyone affected by the leak is urged to call (888) 850-8486 for information on filing a claim.
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