Updated 07/01/2009 11:04 PM
S.I. Ferry Slams Into Dock, Injures 15
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More than a dozen people were injured Wednesday evening after a Staten Island ferry encountered a "hard docking" at the St. George terminal.
U.S. Coast Guard officials say the John J. Marchi lost power during its approach just after 7 p.m. and ran into the pier.
A total of 15 people were transported to Richmond University Medical Center with minor injuries.
The impact caused minor damage to the ferry's bridge deck and a handrail on the passenger walkway.
The Department of Transportation says it appears the crew followed proper procedure. They are now being interviewed and will also undergo routine drug-and-alcohol tests.
Fire department officials say between 750 and 800 passengers were onboard at the time.
Ferry service has not been interrupted.
The city currently runs nine vessels which carry commuters five miles between St. George on Staten Island and Whitehall Street in Lower Manhattan.
In 2003, the Andrew J. Barberi crashed into a pier at full speed, killing 11 people.
Assistant Captain Richard Smith was alone in the wheelhouse -- in violation of regulations -- when he blacked out.
Investigators said he was suffering from extreme fatigue and was on painkillers at the time.