NTSB on scene of Houston Ship Channel collision; MTBE gas additive spilled

A portion of the Houston Ship Channel could be closed for several days as crews scramble to contain a highly flammable gasoline additive that spilled from a ruptured tanker, authorities said Tuesday.

The U.S. Coast Guard on Tuesday expanded the closed area for the cleanup and response from one mile to roughly eight miles, stretching from near Morgan's Point to the Hartman Bridge.

"This is an extremely complex salvage operation," said Brian Penoyer, captain of the port for the Coast Guard. "It's not going to happen in minutes or hours."

Twenty-eight ships are waiting to enter the area, and 24 vessels are waiting to leave, said Andy Kendrick, a Coast Guard spokesman.

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