Massive Container Ship Fire at Los Angeles Port Sparks Emergency Response

A major fire broke out on a container ship docked at the Port of Los Angeles on Friday night, prompting a massive emergency response. Dozens of firefighters rushed to the scene to control the blaze, which reportedly started below deck and later spread to multiple levels of the vessel. A mid-deck explosion was also reported, though the cause is still under investigation.

All 23 crew members on board the ship were safely accounted for, and there were no injuries. The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) confirmed that the fire began as an electrical incident beneath the ship’s deck. Due to the vessel carrying hazardous materials, LAFD’s Hazardous Materials teams have been closely monitoring air quality around the area as a safety precaution.

The vessel, named One Henry Hudson, is 1,102 feet (336 meters) long and is operated by One Ocean Express, a Singapore-based shipping company. Before arriving in Los Angeles, the ship made stops in Japan at the ports of Kobe, Nagoya, and Tokyo. Authorities have yet to confirm the exact origin of the fire or whether the hazardous cargo contributed to its intensity.

By approximately 7 pm local time, the fire had intensified and spread through several levels of the ship. More than 100 firefighters, supported by specialized teams, were actively engaged in fire suppression operations. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass confirmed the scale of the emergency and emphasized that all necessary safety measures were being taken to protect nearby residents and port workers.

The Port of Los Angeles is the busiest port in North America, handling millions of containers each year. The fire on the One Henry Hudson has temporarily disrupted operations at the port and could have broader implications for shipping and logistics in the region. Investigators and fire officials are gathering evidence to determine how the fire started and whether it could have been prevented.

The LAFD is coordinating with port authorities and the shipping company to ensure that firefighting efforts continue efficiently while minimizing environmental hazards from the ship’s cargo. Authorities have advised the public to avoid the area until the fire is fully under control.

No official statement has been issued yet by One Ocean Express regarding the incident. The investigation is ongoing, and officials expect updates as more information becomes available.