A devastating fire on a cargo ship at Port Newark in New Jersey has claimed the lives of two firefighters. The fire, which broke out over 30 hours ago, continued to burn on Friday morning, with the firefighting efforts being hindered by exploding vehicle gas tanks. Newark’s fire chief, Rufus Jackson, stated that his department did not have the necessary training or equipment to effectively combat the flames, particularly when dealing with cars filled with gas on a cargo ship.
The two firefighters, identified as Augusto “Augie” Acabou and Wayne “Bears” Brooks Jr., became trapped while fighting the blaze on Wednesday night. The fire started 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 best efforts, the intense heat forced the firefighters to retreat, resulting in the tragic loss of their lives.
Acabou, a nine-year veteran of the Newark Fire Department assigned to Engine 16, and Brooks, who served for 16.5 years and was assigned to Ladder 4, were both highly respected members of the firefighting community. The last time a Newark firefighter was killed in the line of duty was in 2007.
The fire on the cargo ship, which was carrying thousands of vehicles, spread from five to seven cars to the 11th and 12th floors. Fortunately, there were no electric cars or hazardous cargo on board, and the ship is not at risk of sinking or spilling fuel.
Newark Mayor Baraka expressed his grief and described the solemn scene of the firefighters’ bodies being lowered from a pulley while their fellow firefighters paid their respects. He also emphasized the need for a thorough conversation with the Port Authority regarding firefighting capabilities at their locations.
Governor Phil Murphy released a statement mourning the loss of the two firefighters and extending his condolences to their families. He highlighted the dangers faced by firefighters and their remarkable courage.
The Grimaldi Group, the company that owns the ship, expressed their condolences and stated that an investigation would be conducted in cooperation with relevant authorities to determine the cause of the fire.
The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the risks firefighters face in the line of duty and the importance of providing them with adequate training and equipment to handle unique firefighting situations.
What were the challenges faced by the Newark Fire Department in effectively combating the fire on the cargo ship at Port Newark?
Devastating fire on a cargo ship at Port Newark in New Jersey has tragically resulted in the loss of two brave firefighters. The fire, which ignited over 30 hours ago, is still burning on Friday morning, further complicated by the explosion of vehicle gas tanks. Rufus Jackson, the fire chief of Newark, expressed his department’s lack of adequate training and equipment for effectively battling the raging inferno, especially considering the presence of gas-filled cars on the cargo ship.
Augusto “Augie” A, one of the courageous firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty, has been identified.
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My heartfelt condolences to the families of the brave firefighters who lost their lives in the tragic fire. Their selfless sacrifice will always be remembered and cherished.