According to reports from local authorities, a fire erupted in the engine room of the container ship Chiquita Voyager while docked at the Port of Wilmington on November 26. The incident resulted in four crew members being hospitalized, with one individual suffering serious injuries.
The emergency response was initiated at 9:28 a.m. when firefighters were alerted to smoke emanating from the Liberia-flagged vessel’s superstructure. Upon arrival, they quickly assessed the situation and began their firefighting efforts.
A 23-year-old crew member was treated for potential airway burns and subsequently transported to Christiana Hospital in critical condition. Three additional crew members-aged 27, 29, and 38-were also taken to the same facility due to burns sustained on their hands; however, their specific medical statuses have not been disclosed.
The Wilmington Fire Department confirmed that all injured individuals were part of the ship’s crew. Firefighters entered the vessel to combat the blaze and assist with evacuating personnel onboard. Officials noted that an onboard fire-suppression system had activated effectively containing flames within the engine room.
After approximately three hours of intense firefighting efforts, crews managed to bring the situation under control. Fire units remained onsite throughout much of the day for monitoring purposes and further investigation into what caused this alarming incident is now being led by Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office.
A total of around 70 emergency responders participated in addressing this crisis; this included multiple engines from Wilmington Fire Department along with ambulances and specialized units from New Castle County EMS and other local fire departments providing mutual support.
The Chiquita Voyager plays a vital role in connecting Central America with Wilmington as part of Chiquita’s established shipping services since its inception as a primary North American hub back in 1988. Earlier this year, Enstructure announced plans for an extended partnership with Chiquita Brands aimed at enhancing operations further.
This port regularly accommodates weekly shipments from Chiquita featuring bananas, pineapples, and various produce items destined for over 200 million consumers across North America.
As investigations continue into this incident aboard the vessel, fire officials will maintain oversight until conditions stabilize completely.
