Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Fire on Container Ship at Port of Los Angeles Triggers Explosion and Terminal Shutdowns

Hazmat crews remain on scene to contain the lower-deck fire.

Overview

  • Officials say the blaze began in an under-deck area and appears electrical in origin, with the cause still under investigation as more than 100 firefighters work to cool the vessel.
  • All 23 crew members were accounted for with no injuries reported, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department.
  • A mid-ship blast shortly before 8 p.m. knocked out power to the vessel’s lights and cranes, the fire department said.
  • The Port of Los Angeles suspended operations at four of its seven container terminals in response to the incident.
  • Some involved containers carried hazardous materials, prompting air-quality monitoring and protective gear for responders, and Mayor Karen Bass announced a shelter-in-place for nearby San Pedro and Wilmington early Saturday.