Tragedy struck at Port Newark on Wednesday night as two firefighters lost their lives while battling a fire on a ship docked at the port. The fire broke out around 9:30 p.m. at Export Street and Marsh Street in Newark. Newark Firefighters were called to the scene after receiving reports of multiple vehicles on fire on a ship at Port Newark.
The fire originated on the 10th deck of the ship, named the Grande Costa D’Avorio, as crew members and local stevedores were moving cars, vans, and trucks. Despite their efforts, the firefighters were unable to extinguish the fire due to the intense heat and were forced to retreat. Tragically, two firefighters became trapped inside the ship and were later pronounced dead.
The victims have been identified as Augusto “Augie” Acabou, a nine-year veteran of the Newark Fire Department, and Wayne “Bears” Brooks Jr. Both firefighters were assigned to Engine 16. The news of their deaths has left the city of Newark in mourning, with Mayor Ras Baraka expressing his condolences and describing the dangerous nature of their job.
Newark Fire Chief Rufus Jackson stated that while Newark firefighters are trained to fight fires on cruise ships and vessels with living quarters, this particular fire presented unique challenges due to the presence of vehicles. Five firefighters were also injured during the firefighting operation and were transported to University Hospital in Newark for treatment.
The ship was carrying thousands of vehicles, and the fire spread to the 11th and 12th floors, requiring firefighters to battle the blaze well into the early morning hours. Fortunately, there were no electric cars or hazardous cargo on board, and the ship is not at risk of sinking or spilling fuel.
The Grimaldi Group, the company that owns the ship, released a statement expressing their condolences and stating that an investigation will be conducted in cooperation with relevant authorities to determine the cause of the fire.
This tragic incident serves as a painful reminder of the dangers faced by firefighters and their remarkable courage. The last time a Newark firefighter was killed on duty was in 2007. Governor Phil Murphy also expressed his condolences and emphasized the bravery of the firefighters.
As the investigation into the fire continues, the community mourns the loss of two brave firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
What actions are authorities taking to determine the cause of the fire that claimed the lives of the two firefighters?
Ers were unable to save the two firefighters, who unfortunately succumbed to the flames.
The fire spread rapidly, engulfing the ship and causing thick plumes of black smoke to billow into the night sky. It took nearly six hours for firefighters to bring the blaze under control, but not without significant damage to the ship and its cargo.
The loss of these brave firefighters is a devastating blow to the Newark firefighting community and the wider community as a whole. Fire Commissioner, John Fugate, expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the fallen heroes, stating, “Their selfless dedication to protecting our city will never be forgotten.”
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, with authorities working diligently to determine what sparked the flames. Preliminary reports suggest that the fire may have been caused by a mechanical malfunction on one of the vehicles being moved onto the ship.
Port Newark, one of the busiest ports in the United States, temporarily suspended operations in the wake of the fire, while emergency responders and investigators worked diligently to assess the situation and ensure the safety of all personnel on-site.
The tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers faced by firefighters as they bravely confront dangerous and unpredictable situations. These individuals put their lives on the line every day to ensure the safety and well-being of others, and their sacrifice should never be taken for granted.
As the investigation continues, the Newark firefighting community will come together to mourn the loss of their comrades and support their families during this difficult time. The memory of these fallen heroes will be forever etched in the hearts of those who knew and respected them.
