Coast Guard Frees 2 Ships Trapped By Ice

STRAITS OF MACKINAC (AP) - The Coast Guard has freed two ships trapped by ice in the Straits of Mackinac between Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas.

Authorities say a 678-foot bulk carrier Manistee and its 18 crew members were beset by ice Saturday morning west of the Mackinac Bridge.

The Coast Guard cutter Biscayne Bay freed the Manistee and escorted the vessel into Lake Huron.

The Biscayne Bay also freed the 90-foot ferry, Huron, with 68 people aboard from ice between Saint Ignace and Mackinac Island Friday evening.

The cutter later escorted the Huron back to Saint Ignace.

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