Download 18 FREE Maritime eBooks
NTSB To Reveal Cause Of Deadly Cargo Ship Fire That Killed Two
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will hold a public meeting on April 15 to discuss the cause of the fire aboard the roll-on/roll-off container vessel Grande Costa D’Avorio, which occurred on July 5, 2023, at Port Newark, New Jersey.
The fire took the lives of two firefighters and injured six other emergency responders.
Per reports, the fire started when a pusher vehicle used by shoreside workers to move cargo ignited while the ship was being loaded on an interior garage deck.
The fire quickly spread, creating dense smoke inside the vessel. Two land-based firefighters, responding to the incident, became disoriented in the smoke-filled garage decks and lost their lives.
The meeting on April 15 will determine what caused the incident and discuss safety recommendations to prevent similar incidents in future.
The board will vote on its final findings, which will be included in an official report. The meeting will be open to the public and the media, with an option to watch the proceedings live online.
A separate investigation by the US Coast Guard revealed a major issue in firefighting preparedness for maritime incidents. According to preliminary Coast Guard findings, the local fire department had little to no training or experience in handling shipboard fires.
Investigators stated that vessel fires require different firefighting techniques compared to land-based fires, and such incidents demand more resources and specialised skills.
The Coast Guard investigations also pointed out that communication challenges between the ship’s international crew and emergency responders may have added to the difficulties faced during the response.
Such barriers can become a major obstacle during high-pressure situations like fires on board vessels.
Grande Costa D’Avorio was carrying about 1,200 vehicles and 157 containers at the time of the fire. The vessel’s operator, Grimaldi Group, confirmed that there were no electric vehicles or hazardous materials in the cargo.
The Coast Guard is also preparing its report on the fire. In November 2023, it issued Marine Safety Alert 09-23, urging better coordination in marine firefighting efforts across the country.
The reports will likely change maritime emergency response strategies, especially regarding firefighting training and shipboard fire preparedness.
Reference: NTSB
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
Related Articles
⚓️ Enhance Your Knowledge. Prevent Accidents. Stay Safe at Sea.
1. eBooks for Engine Department
Master machinery operations, troubleshooting, and safety procedures with expertly written guides tailored for marine engineers. Prevent costly breakdowns and onboard accidents through practical knowledge.
👉 Explore Engine Department eBooks
2. eBooks for Deck Department
Sharpen your seamanship, navigation, and cargo-handling skills with real-world case studies and practical insights designed for deck officers and cadets.
👉Discover Deck Department eBooks
3. eBooks on Electrical Fundamentals & Issues
Understand marine electrical systems, identify potential faults, and prevent onboard electrical failures with step-by-step explanations from industry experts.
4. Pocket Guides for Quick Reference
Compact, handy, and loaded with essential checklists—perfect for on-the-go reference during operations and emergencies at sea.
5. Combo Packs to Save Big
Access multiple expert eBooks at discounted prices. Ideal for professionals seeking complete safety and operational knowledge across various ship departments.
6. Digital Maritime Courses – Learn at Your Own Pace
Upgrade your competence with Marine Insight Academy’s online courses. Learn from industry professionals anytime, anywhere, and become a safer, smarter seafarer.
Subscribe To Our Daily Newsletter
By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.
BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT