Ludlow (WCPO)— Server Kelly Gannon watched as parts of the beloved Ludlow Bromley Yacht Club sank into the Ohio River on Wednesday, Oct. 2 morning.
The Ludlow staple is a total loss after a barge slammed into it at about 6 a.m., according to Chief Scott Smith. One person was aboard the barge when it crashed; no one was injured.
Gannon said the Yacht Club is much more than a floating bar and restaurant—to her, it’s home. The joint reminds her of her mother, who passed away last year.
“She loved coming down here and eating with my dad and everything … so it’s memories, a lot of memories,” Gannon said.
The impact of the crash nearly split the bar and restaurant in half and sent six boats adrift in the river.
Smith said the kitchen was sinking as of Wednesday morning. Tables, bars, and refrigerators were also starting to go underwater.
The popular spot bumps to live music and large crowds on the weekends. Smith said he recognizes the crash could have been much worse.
“A Thursday night, a Friday night, a Saturday night, it would’ve been—it would’ve been a major problem,” Smith said.
Gannon said she is devastated that the Ludlow Bromley Yacht Club might be gone for good.
“Next couple of weeks, I think they are getting ready to end their season down here, but shouldn’t have to go out like this,” Gannon said.
The Coast Guard is investigating the crash.
