Two firefighters lost their lives while battling a fire on a cargo ship docked at Port Newark in New Jersey on Wednesday night. The fire started around 9:30 p.m. at Export Street and Marsh Street in Newark. The Newark Firefighters were responding to a report of multiple vehicles on fire on a ship at Port Newark.
The fire broke out on the 10th deck of the ship, named the Grande Costa D’Avorio, while crew members and local stevedores were moving cars, vans, and trucks. The flames quickly spread to five to seven cars and reached the 11th and 12th floors of the vessel.
Newark Fire Chief Rufus Jackson explained that firefighters attempted to extinguish the fire but were forced back by the intense heat. During their retreat, two firefighters became trapped inside the ship and were later pronounced dead.
Mayor Ras Baraka expressed his condolences and referred to the incident as a tragic event for the city of Newark and firefighters in general. Several other firefighters sustained injuries while battling the flames and were transported to University Hospital in Newark for treatment.
The cargo ship was carrying thousands of vehicles but did not contain any electric cars or hazardous cargo. Despite the extensive fire, the ship was not at risk of sinking or spilling fuel. The vessel usually operates between the U.S. and West Africa, carrying more than 1,200 new and used vehicles and 157 containers.
Governor Phil Murphy issued a statement mourning the loss of the two firefighters and expressing his sympathy to their families. He also highlighted the bravery and courage displayed by firefighters and the dangers they face in the line of duty.
The Grimaldi Group, the owner of the ship, released a statement acknowledging the incident and expressing their condolences to the families affected. They assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted in cooperation with relevant authorities to determine the cause of the fire.
The fire on the cargo ship required extensive efforts from firefighters, lasting into the early morning hours. The incident serves as a reminder of the risks firefighters face and their selfless dedication to protecting lives and property.
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