Torch, Inc. v. Alesich

POLITZ, Chief Judge:

Claimants appeal the trial court’s decision holding that Alesich & Company, as owner of the CHANTEL LYNN, was entitled to a limitations decree and thus was absolved from liability exceeding the value of the vessel. For the reasons assigned, we affirm.

BACKGROUND

These consolidated cases arise out of a tragic accident which occurred on July 6, *4261994. Torch, Inc. was hired by Texaco Exploration and Production, Inc. to lay pipelines in canals in Plaquemines Parish. The job was performed by using the lugger CHAN-TEL LYNN to position and move the pipe-laying barge, TORCH I,…