A large multi-agency response was dispatched to the Port of Wilmington on Tuesday morning after smoke was reported coming from a vessel docked at Berth 2. The initial alert was transmitted just before 9:30.
Fire crews learned that the vessel’s generator was on fire, with the ship’s engine room later reported to be burning on fire. As the incident escalated, command requested tower ladders, additional basic life support and advanced life support units, and multiple marine resources for standby in the river. Crews reported difficulty connecting to the ship’s standpipe, leading to the deployment of a flying standpipe system to reach upper decks. Three ship crewmen suffered what are described as minor injuries. They were transported to the hospital for treatment.
A second alarm was struck just before, prompting additional engine companies and marine units to the scene. Battalion officers coordinated suppression efforts across multiple levels of the vessel. Coast Guard officials were notified and later arrived with a small boat, supporting operations on the river side.
Just after 10:00, all fire personnel had exited the engine room as teams prepared for a coordinated discharge of the ship’s CO₂ fire suppression system. All crew members from the vessel were accounted for after earlier reports that two were unaccounted for
Temperatures of approximately 200 degrees were later recorded on the A-side of Hold 5, prompting command to request additional gas meters and thermal readings. Throughout the operation, marine units from multiple agencies maintained positions along the Christina River.
Officials have not yet released details on the cause of the fire or the extent of any damage. The incident drew an extensive response from Wilmington Fire Department units, New Castle County agencies, and marine partners along the Delaware River.
This is a developing story. Additional details will be posted when available.