The Athos I, a Cyprus flagged vessel, lost an estimated 30,000 gallons of heavy crude oil as it was enroute to the Citgo Facility in Paulsboro, N.J. at approximately 9:15 p.m. Two tugs were helping the tanker move to the facilities pier when it listed eight-degrees to the left and lost power.

The source of the loss was secured and authorities were notified. Coast Guard Personnel from Marine Safety Office-Group Philadelphia as well as personnel and resources from New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, United States Environmental Protection Agency, New Jersey State Police, representatives from the ship's owner and Citgo are all cooperating to ensure the clean-up of the spill as well as minimizing any impact to the environment.

Thousands of feet of protective boom are set up around the vessel and neighboring creeks as a preventive measure to contain further impact to the river and wildlife.

"Any amount of oil in our waterways is a serious matter and we are working hard to clean it up and ensure that the Delaware River is open to commerce," said Captain Jonathan Sarubbi, Captain of the Port of Philadelphia.

Boats and helicopters from the Coast Guard as well as New Jersey State Police are assessing the quantity and impact of the oil spill. The public is urged to call the Coast Guard if they see any impacted wildlife. The best way to help in the the recovery efforts is to notify the proper authorities of any impact to the environment and wildlife to the Coast Guard at (215) 271-4807.

Contracted for clean-up operations are Miller Environmental, Delaware River and Bay Co-Op and Clean Ventures. Clean-up operations began last night and is ongoing.