Crew Member Dies in Fire Aboard Maersk Frankfurt Off India

Maersk has confirmed the death of a crew member onboard its chartered containership, Maersk Frankfurt. The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) continues to fight the fire off the west coast of India.

The fire was reported last Friday as the ship was underway approximately 50 nautical miles off Karwar, India, while en route from Mundra, India to Colombo, Sri Lanka. The crew initiated firefighting efforts, supported by the Indian Coast Guard.

Although no visible flames remain, smouldering in containers continues, Maersk said in a statement on Monday. “Owners have engaged with a salvage company, and specialised firefighting experts are on their way to board the vessel and extend their support to the situation,” the statement said.

The vessel is reported to be in stable condition with all machinery, steering, and navigational equipment fully operational.

On Sunday, Maersk confirmed that one crew member has passed away. “It is with deep regret that the ship managers have confirmed the passing of one of the crew members following the fire incident. The rest of the crew members are safe and accounted for. The vessel owner and ship managers are in touch with the crew and are ensuring all possible support is extended to them,” Maersk said.

The 225-meter-long Maersk Frankfurt was delivered in 2024 and is registered in Panama. Equasis data shows the ship is owned by LEO OCEAN/TOKEI KAIUN of Japan and it’s ISM manager is BERNHARD SCHULTE-HKG LP of Hong Kong.

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