A significant fire erupted aboard a container ship off the coast of Los Angeles on Friday. The incident raised alarms due to the presence of hazardous materials in the ship’s cargo. However, all 23 crew members remained safe, and there were no reported injuries.
Incident Overview
The vessel involved in the fire is the One Henry Hudson, a 1,102-foot cargo ship operated by One Ocean Express, based in Singapore. The fire originated below deck and caused an explosion mid-deck, prompting a rapid response from local authorities.
Response and Safety Measures
- The Los Angeles Fire Department dispatched over 100 firefighters to control the blaze.
- A shelter-in-place order was issued for nearby communities, including Wilmington and San Pedro.
- The U.S. Coast Guard established a safety zone of one nautical mile around the vessel.
Community Impact
Mayor Karen Bass lifted the shelter-in-place order on Saturday morning, ensuring the safety of the local population. She confirmed that all precautionary measures were taken as firefighters battled the flames overnight.
Previous Port Calls
Before arriving in Los Angeles, the One Henry Hudson had made significant stops in Japan, including:
- Kobe
- Nagoya
- Tokyo
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, and One Ocean Express has not yet commented on the incident. This event underscores the risks associated with hazardous materials in maritime shipping.
Conclusion
The swift action by the Los Angeles Fire Department and U.S. Coast Guard ensured the safety of both crew members and residents nearby. Continuous efforts will focus on understanding the fire’s origin and minimizing future risks.
