NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — About 7,700 gallons of fuel spilled into the James River on Friday near Newport News Shipbuilding during a transfer to the John F. Kennedy (CVN 79) aircraft carrier.
A statement from a shipyard spokesperson says the spill happened around 1 p.m. February 13 when fuel was being transferred from a barge to the future USS John F. Kennedy.
Watch: 'A huge impact,' completion of John F. Kennedy, Navy's next aircraft carrier, delayed until 2027
The fuel spilled into the James River. The spokesperson says 7,749 gallons of fuel were "unaccounted for from the transfer."
"The transfer was secured, and containment booms, clean up and remediation efforts were initiated immediately to contain the fuel and protect the surrounding environment. The U.S. Coast Guard and local authorities were notified – they are reviewing and monitoring the ongoing cleanup process," the shipyard's statement goes on to say. "We want to thank our shipbuilders, subcontractors and Navy for their quick actions in handling the spill and their continued engagement in the cleanup process."
The city of Newport News confirmed the information in a statement Sunday evening, adding that the cause of the spill is under investigation and that nearby residents may smell the odor.
Drinking water is still safe, officials said.
