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4mo ago

Fire Engulfs Long-Abandoned Ferry on Fraser River, Raising Air Quality Concerns

The Queen of Sydney, derelict for over two decades, caught fire near Mission, prompting emergency responses and public safety advisories.

The retired BC Ferries vessel Queen of Sidney, which was in operation from 1960 to 2000, is seen moored on the Fraser River, in Mission, B.C., Tuesday, July 18, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
The retired BC Ferries vessel Queen of Sidney, that was in operation from 1960 to 2000, is seen on ablaze while it is moored on the Fraser River near Mission, B.C. on May 3,2025
File photo of a firetruck.
The derelict Queen of Sidney ferry was ablaze early Saturday morning.

Overview

  • The Queen of Sydney, a decommissioned BC ferry abandoned since 2000, erupted in flames early Saturday morning near Mission, British Columbia.
  • The City of Mission activated its Emergency Operations Centre at 4 a.m. to coordinate firefighting efforts and public safety measures.
  • Mission Fire Rescue Service and the Ministry of Environment are actively managing the fire, with hazardous smoke plumes raising air quality concerns.
  • Residents near the affected area have been advised to shelter in place, close windows and doors, and turn off ventilation systems to minimize exposure.
  • The cause of the fire remains under investigation, highlighting ongoing issues with derelict vessel oversight and environmental risks in BC waterways.