Wilmington, DE (November 27, 2025) – Four people were hurt after a fire broke out on a container ship at the Port of Wilmington on Wednesday, November 26. The fire started shortly after 9:00 a.m. when flames ignited inside the engine room of the Liberian-flagged Chiquita Voyager. The vessel was docked at the port’s fruit import terminal at the time.
Crew members acted fast and activated the ship’s CO2 suppression system as smoke spread through the ship. They soon chose to evacuate when the fire grew stronger. The US Coast Guard and local fire crews responded and worked with port personnel to bring the blaze under control. Officials said the fire began in one of the ship’s generators and intensified quickly.
All crew members were accounted for after the evacuation. Four individuals sustained minor burn injuries and were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Firefighters contained the blaze within three hours. Authorities reported no environmental impacts or pollution from the incident.
Smoke was seen billowing from the ship’s superstructure as responders fought the fire. Officials continue to inspect the vessel and determine the exact cause of the generator failure. The investigation remains active as crews review the damage and collect more details. We extend our sincere wishes for recovery to those injured in this incident.
Maritime Fire Incidents in Wilmington
Large vessel fires, while less common than roadway crashes, present serious risks for workers, crew members, and emergency responders. When a fire erupts aboard a ship, confined spaces, fuel sources, and electrical systems can cause rapid spread. Ports like Wilmington handle heavy cargo traffic, making safety an ongoing priority. Even with strict regulations, ship fires may still occur due to equipment malfunctions,
electrical issues, or human error.
Injuries from maritime fires often involve burns, smoke inhalation, and fall injuries from emergency evacuations. Victims may need long-term treatment, depending on the severity of their burns or respiratory injuries. Those hurt in these situations often face challenges dealing with insurance companies, employers, or vessel operators. Speaking with a Wilmington personal injury attorney can help injured workers understand their rights and explore options for compensation.
Compensation after a shipboard accident may include coverage for medical care, lost income, long-term disability, and pain and suffering. Maritime injuries may fall under laws such as the Jones Act or general negligence rules, depending on the worker’s role. A Delaware personal injury lawyer can help determine which laws apply and guide victims through the claims process. Legal representation can also help ensure that evidence is preserved, including maintenance records, safety logs, and witness statements.
Fires on cargo vessels can impact more than the crew. Port workers, contractors, and emergency responders may also face danger during these events. Understanding the most common causes—such as generator failures, electrical faults, and fuel system leaks—reminds everyone how important regular inspections and strong safety protocols are in maritime environments.
If you or someone you care about was hurt in an accident in Wilmington or anywhere in Delaware, don’t wait to get help. Call Murphy & Landon at 302-472-8100 today for a free consultation.
Note: Our law firm utilizes secondary sources to create this post. The facts surrounding this specific accident have not been independently verified. Please contact Murphy & Landon if you find any inaccurate information. We will update the post right away to reflect the most accurate information available.
Disclaimer: None of the information in this post is intended to be legal advice or medical advice. This is not a solicitation for business. If you have been injured in an accident, get medical attention as soon as possible. The photo used in this post was not taken at the accident scene.
