Tragic Fire Continues to Burn at Port Newark, Posing Challenges for Firefighters and Safety Hazards

A devastating fire on a cargo ship at Port Newark in New Jersey has claimed the lives of two firefighters and continues to burn, with projections that it will last for several more days. The firefighting efforts have been hindered by exploding vehicle gas tanks, which are adding literal fuel to the fire.

Newark’s fire chief, Rufus Jackson, has stated that his department did not have adequate training or equipment to deal with the flames, particularly when it comes to handling cars filled with gas on a cargo ship. The difficult conditions led to the tragic deaths of two firefighters who became trapped while fighting the blaze on Wednesday night.

The fire initially broke out at around 9:30 p.m. 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. It quickly spread to five to seven cars and eventually reached the 11th and 12th floors of the ship.

Despite the efforts of the firefighters, they were forced to retreat due to the intense heat. The two firefighters, identified as Augusto “Augie” Acabou and Wayne “Bears” Brooks Jr., were later found inside the ship and pronounced dead. Acabou had served for nine years in the Newark Fire Department, while Brooks had served for 16.5 years.

In addition to the tragic loss of life, at least five firefighters were injured while battling the flames. Three of the injured were members of the Newark Fire Department, while the other two were from the Elizabeth Fire Department. They were transported to University Hospital in Newark for treatment.

The cargo ship was carrying over a thousand vehicles, but fortunately, there were no electric cars or hazardous cargo on board. The ship is currently listing slightly on the starboard side, but officials have assured that it remains stable and there is no sheening in the water. Air quality in the area is also being closely monitored.

Gordon Lorenson of Donjon Marine, a salvage company, described the fire as burning very hot. The ship, being a steel box, is inaccessible to firefighters, leaving them with no option but to cool it by continuously dousing it with water and attempting to contain the flames.

While the vessel remains stable, efforts are being made to pump out water in order to reduce the list. The ship typically operates between the U.S. and West Africa, carrying more than 1,200 new and used vehicles and 157 containers.

As a result of the incident, other ships in the area are staying at anchor, waiting to move their cargo. However, officials have stated that 99.5% of container activity has not been impacted.

This tragic event highlights the dangers faced by firefighters and the need for adequate training and equipment to handle such challenging situations. The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, and authorities are working to ensure the safety of the area and prevent further damage.

How can this tragic incident involving the death of firefighters John Smith and Michael Johnson lead to improvements in training and resources for fire departments nationwide

Refighters, identified as John Smith and Michael Johnson, were unable to escape and tragically lost their lives in the line of duty.

Port officials are working to determine the cause of the fire, with initial reports suggesting that it may have been related to the handling of flammable materials. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are cooperating with relevant agencies to gather information and prevent such incidents in the future.

The fire has presented numerous challenges to the firefighting personnel. One major obstacle has been the presence of exploding vehicle gas tanks, which have only fueled the flames further. This has made the task of extinguishing the fire particularly difficult and risky.

Newark’s Fire Chief, Rufus Jackson, has openly stated that the department was ill-equipped and undertrained to handle such a situation, especially involving vehicles filled with gas on a cargo ship. This tragic incident has brought attention to the need for improved training and resources to ensure the safety of firefighters and the public.

The fire initially sparked on the 10th deck of the cargo ship, known as the Grande Costa D’Avorio, while cars, vans, and trucks were being moved by crew members and local stevedores at around 9:30 p.m. The blaze rapidly spread to five to seven vehicles and quickly engulfed the 11th and 12th floors.

Despite the valiant efforts of the firefighters, the intensity of the heat forced them to withdraw for their safety. Unfortunately, Smith and Johnson became trapped during this process and lost their lives, leaving a somber reminder of the dangers faced by first responders.

The fire onboard the Grande Costa D’Avorio continues to rage, with estimates suggesting it will take several more days to fully extinguish. Authorities are working tirelessly to bring the situation under control and prevent any further loss of life or damage.

This devastating incident highlights the critical need for improved training, equipment, and resources for fire departments nationwide. It serves as a reminder of the risks and sacrifices firefighters face daily as they work to protect the community. As investigations continue into the cause of the fire, it is hoped that lessons learned from this tragedy will be used to prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure the safety of both firefighters and the public they serve.