Bulkhead fracture causes small spill

VALDEZ (AP) -- The U.S. Coast Guard said a small spill at Valdez Marine Terminal was caused by fracture along the bulkhead of a vessel.

Inspectors found a three-to-four inch fracture Saturday along the bulkhead of the vessel S/R Benicia. An estimated 10 gallons of oil leaked from a crude tank into a ballast tank, causing a sheen to form on the water.

Alyeska response personnel were called in and remained on the scene throughout the night. Most of the sheen was cleaned up.

The Coast Guard evaluated the fitness of the vessel and allowed it to depart the port Sunday morning. Officials said the fracture did not affect the integrity of the vessel's hull.