Fire response ongoing aboard motor vessel at Port Newark

Unified Command Continues Response to Vessel Fire in Port Newark

PORT NEWARK, New Jersey — The Unified Command, comprised of the Coast Guard, Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Newark Fire Department, and Gallagher Marine Systems, is actively responding to the fire that occurred aboard a vessel in Port Newark on Friday.

The primary objective of the Unified Command and response personnel, along with assisting agencies, is to ensure the safety of the public and first responders, suppress the fire, protect the environment, and minimize economic and operational disruptions within the port area.

Currently, marine fire fighting specialists are diligently working to suppress the fire on the upper decks of the vessel. Fire agencies both pierside and on the water in the Port of New York and New Jersey region are providing support in this effort.

Although the vessel continues to list to the starboard side due to water accumulation from firefighting activities, it remains stable. Salvage teams are actively removing water to counter the list caused by the fire suppression efforts.

Air quality monitoring remains a top priority for the Unified Command. Three air monitoring devices have been deployed in close proximity to the ship to assess air quality at the incident site. Additional devices have been set up on the west side of Corbin Street, measuring air quality over a mile away from the vessel. Moreover, more air monitoring equipment and staff are scheduled to be dispatched to the west side of Newark Airport on Saturday, ensuring a comprehensive range of air quality testing.

As of now, there have been no reports of waterway pollution. Response personnel are conducting continuous testing of water samples as firefighting operations continue.

To maintain safety, the Coast Guard has established a security zone within the Port Newark channel. Although limited restrictions are in place, the Port of New York and New York remains open. However, the Port Newark Channel from Berth 18 inward is currently closed.

A formal investigation will be conducted by all relevant parties at the federal, state, and local levels, as well as the vessel’s owners, to determine the cause of the fire and any associated fatalities. Close cooperation among these entities will ensure a thorough and comprehensive investigation.

Supporting the Families of FF Acabou & FF Brooks

The Newark Firefighters Union is deeply saddened by the loss of firefighters Augusto (Augie) Acabou and Wayne (Bear) Brooks Jr., who made the ultimate sacrifice in their commitment to the safety of the people of Newark. In this time of profound grief, the community has come together to support the Acabou and Brooks families in their mourning. Recognizing the financial burdens they face, the Newark Firefighters Union has established a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds directly benefiting both families. The campaign evenly splits all donations between the two families. It is important to note that this is the only fundraising campaign affiliated with the families. By contributing, we can honor the brave firefighters’ memory and provide tangible support to their loved ones. Every contribution, regardless of size, is greatly appreciated.

Funeral Arrangements for Firefighters Acabou and Brooks

Funeral arrangements have been made for Newark Firefighters Augusto Acabou and Wayne Brooks Jr. The viewing for Firefighter Acabou will be held on Wednesday, July 12, 2023, from 4pm-8pm at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, located at 89 Ridge Street, off Clifton Avenue, in Newark, New Jersey. The Funeral Mass will take place on Thursday, July 13, 2023, at 10am at the same location. The viewing for Firefighter Brooks will be held on Thursday, July 13, 2023, from 4pm-8pm at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart. The Funeral Mass in honor of Firefighter Brooks will be held on Friday, July 14, 2023, at 10am at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart.

In conclusion, the Unified Command, along with various response personnel and assisting agencies, continues their diligent efforts to suppress the fire on the vessel in Port Newark. Safety measures are in place to protect the public and first responders, while constant monitoring of air and water quality provides essential information for responding to this incident. Additionally, the Newark Firefighters Union has established a fundraising campaign to support the families of the fallen firefighters, and the funeral arrangements have been announced. The memory of these brave individuals will remain as a testament to their bravery and service.