Contractor Dies After CO2 System Discharges on Docked Ludington Tugboat

Mark Allen was killed March 2 when a carbon dioxide fire suppression system accidentally discharged while he was performing maintenance aboard the tugboat Undaunted, which was laid up for the winter at a Ludington dock owned by Interlake Logistics Solutions, Inc.

The incident occurred at approximately 11:27 a.m. aboard the Undaunted, part of the Interlake Steamship Company's Great Lakes cargo fleet. Allen, a contractor, was working on the vessel's CO2 suppression system when the equipment unexpectedly discharged. Interlake Logistics Solutions employees immediately rendered first aid and initiated potentially life-saving measures before emergency personnel arrived. Ludington Police, the Ludington Fire Department, and LIFE EMS all responded to the scene, but Allen was transported to Corewell Health Ludington Hospital, where he died of his injuries.

Allen was the husband of Deb Allen, Traverse City's deputy city manager. Traverse City City Manager Benjamin Marentette confirmed the loss to city staff. "On behalf of the City of Traverse City, I will confirm that Deputy City Manager Deb Allen has experienced a family tragedy," Marentette said. "Mine — and the entire team's hearts — are broken for Deb. We will not be confirming any details or providing information regarding the tragedy out of respect for her privacy."

Ludington Police Chief Christopher Jones and Captain Michael Haveman oversaw the initial department response. Investigators are working with Interlake Logistics Solutions to determine what caused the suppression system to activate. The cause of the discharge, whether mechanical failure, procedural error, or another factor, has not been established publicly.

The investigation remains active. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Jake Miller at 231-843-2435 or miller209@ci.ludington.mi.us.