Coast Guard Responds Massive Barge Fire in Delaware Bay

The U.S. Coast Guard and local fire departments are responding to a large fire on barge carrying scrap household appliances in Delaware Bay.

The barge was located about 9 miles south of Port Mahon, Delaware, as Monday morning.

The Coast Guard reports that watchstanders at the Sector Delaware Bay Command Center received a call at approximately 1 a.m. reporting a barge on fire in the Delaware River. The barge is reportedly carrying household appliances for scrap.

The Coast Guard launched a 29-foot Response Boat-Small boatcrew to assist and continue to monitor the situation.

The Coast Guard said there are six fire boats on scene from local fire agencies actively fighting the fire.

Photos posted to Facebook showed the fire still burning after dawn.

The barge appears to be the new CMT Y NOT 6 belonging to Coeymans Marine Towing (CMT), part of Carver Companies. Unfortunately Carver Companies just said in May 18 Facebook post that the barge was “new.” We reached out to CMT but our call went to voicemail.

“Our highest priority is ensuring the safety of firefighters and response personnel on scene,” said Capt. Jonathan Theel, Sector Delaware Bay Captain of the Port. “We will also work to mitigate any environmental threats and protect the flow of commerce within this vital port.”

There are no injuries and no signs of pollution impacting the waterway and the cause of the fire is not known.

The Coast Guard is requesting that all mariners avoid the area.

Update: