As reported by local news outlets, a significant emergency unfolded at the Port of Los Angeles on Friday when a cargo ship ignited in flames while docked in San Pedro. This alarming incident prompted the immediate evacuation of all 23 crew members as firefighters rushed to manage the situation involving hazardous materials.
The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) confirmed that all crew members were safely evacuated without any injuries being reported. The fire broke out due to an electrical malfunction below deck on the 1,100-foot container vessel named Henry Hudson around 6:38 p.m. An explosion occurred shortly after, disrupting power and operations aboard the ship.
Initially, six crew members were unaccounted for; however, by approximately 8:27 p.m., they had all been located and brought to safety. LAFD officials noted that flames were visible from multiple levels of the ship and hazardous materials had been detected in several cargo holds.
Firefighters donned protective gear and breathing apparatuses as specialized teams monitored air quality throughout the operation. Due to unsafe conditions below deck, incident command prohibited firefighters from entering those areas.
A response team comprising over 100 firefighters-including marine units-was deployed to tackle this emergency effectively. Marine crews focused on cooling down the exterior of the vessel to ensure safer working conditions for responders involved in firefighting efforts.
Despite extensive water usage during firefighting operations, officials indicated that there was no immediate risk of sinking for the vessel. Drones equipped with thermal imaging technology were utilized to assess heat levels inside and aid ongoing response efforts.
In a statement shared via social media platform X, Mayor Karen Bass highlighted that first responders were diligently working to extinguish flames while port police assisted with crew safety measures. She also mentioned ongoing monitoring of air quality during this critical operation. California Governor Gavin Newsom has been kept informed about developments as his office collaborates with local authorities regarding this incident.
The California Highway Patrol announced around 10:30 p.m. that access via Vincent Thomas Bridge-a vital route leading into port terminals-would remain closed until further notice due to safety concerns stemming from this event; drivers have been advised to seek alternative routes.
The U.S Coast Guard established a one-nautical-mile safety perimeter around the affected vessel for precautionary measures.
Citing tracking data, it was revealed that this Panamanian-flagged ship had arrived in Los Angeles from Tokyo just days prior on Wednesday evening.
