Leaks Threaten Historic Navy Ships at Buffalo Naval Park

Crews work to contain petroleum spill from USS Croaker and assess damage to USS The Sullivans

Mar. 14, 2026 at 10:20pm

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A recent inspection at the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park revealed that the USS Croaker, a World War II-era submarine, is leaking petroleum from a pinhole in one of its fuel tanks into the Buffalo River. Authorities have launched a joint effort to contain the spill and assess the extent of the damage, with concerns also growing about the condition of the nearby USS The Sullivans, another historic naval vessel docked at the park.

Why it matters

The Buffalo Naval Park is home to several decommissioned Navy ships that serve as important historical and educational attractions for the local community. Any damage or leaks to these vessels could threaten their preservation and public access, as well as pose environmental risks to the surrounding waterways.

The details

The leak from the USS Croaker was discovered during a routine inspection, with officials noting a small but steady flow of petroleum into the Buffalo River. Crews have been deployed to contain the spill and prevent further environmental damage, while also evaluating the overall structural integrity of the aging submarine.

  • The leak from the USS Croaker was discovered on March 12, 2026 during a routine inspection.
  • Containment efforts at the Buffalo Naval Park began on March 13, 2026.

The players

USS Croaker

A World War II-era submarine that is part of the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park's collection of decommissioned Navy vessels.

USS The Sullivans

Another historic Navy ship docked at the Buffalo Naval Park, which officials are also concerned about due to its aging condition.

Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park

A museum and park that displays several decommissioned Navy ships, including the USS Croaker and USS The Sullivans, as educational and historical attractions.

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What they’re saying

“We are working diligently to contain this spill and assess the full extent of the damage to the USS Croaker. Preserving these historic vessels is of the utmost importance.”

— Rear Admiral Sarah Thompson, Park Director, Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park (Buffalo News)

What’s next

Officials plan to conduct a comprehensive inspection of the USS The Sullivans in the coming days to determine if it has also sustained any structural damage or leaks.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in maintaining and preserving aging naval vessels that serve as important historical and educational resources for local communities. Proactive maintenance and monitoring will be crucial to ensuring the long-term viability of the Buffalo Naval Park's collection.