LA PORTE, Texas -- Battleship Texas might lose its final battle -- with old age.
The Lone Star State's namesake battleship survived two world wars, but Texas Parks and Wildlife once again closed the vessel Sunday until further notice.
Maintenance crews reported a major leak, and the iconic 103-year-old warship is tilting by 8 degrees as a result of taking on water.
A dive crew was deployed and several holes were found about 15 feet below the waterline, TPWD said.
The ship's assistant superintendent says repair teams worked on Monday to patch those holes and pump out water.
Divers are currently inspecting for other leaks while pumping efforts continue.
Periodic leaks have plagued the ship since 2010. However, more extensive repairs have been postponed due to the $70 million price tag.
TPWD
Battleship Texas sits docked east of Houston in La Porte.
The warship participated in battles in both World War I and World War II, and helped ferry soldiers home across the Pacific after the Japanese surrender in 1945.
For updates on when the battleship reopens, visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website.
---
Join the Discussion:
Follow Spectrum News Austin on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram