Fuel spill from Tim Allens yacht forces Michigan marina to close over July Fourth weekend

Roughly 30 gallons of diesel fuel leaked from ‘Home Improvement’ actor Tim Allen’s yacht forcing a northern Michigan marina to temporarily close over the Fourth of July weekend.

The oil spill was first reported late Sunday afternoon and resulted in the marina remaining closed until Monday evening, Northport Village Marina Harbormaster Bill Rosemurgy told the Traverse City Record-Eagle, adding that the pill was mostly contained within the marina. A beach and a playground south of the marina were also closed after fuel washed up on shore.

“I looked at it and said to myself ‘I wouldn’t let my kids swim here, so I’m not going to let anyone else’s kids swim here,'” said Rosemurgy, Fox News reported. 

“That’s about as scientific as it was.”

Leelanau Township Fire Chief Hugh Cook said the leak was caused by a problem with the boat’s fuel filter. This allowed diesel to flow into the engine room. The bilge pump discharged the fuel into the marina once it had been poured into the compartment.

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Tim Allen acknowledged that as he was turning towards Omena Bay when the gasoline filter gasket popped. Allen claimed that until it was brought to his attention, he was unaware of the leak.

“I don’t think he had any idea what was going on,” the 69-year-old said, Fox News reported. 

“I felt very uncomfortable closing the harbor down for everybody,” he added. He also estimated that about 11 gallons of fuel spilled into the harbor.  

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An eyewitness reportedly claimed that she saw several dead ducklings. She also carp and pike in the marina, Fox News reported.

Cook, however, claimed that he does not believe the oil spill has affected wildlife in the area.