Massive Barge Fire In Delaware Bay Draws Coast Guard, Local Response

PORT MAHON, DE — A barge carrying household appliances caught fire on the Delaware River on Monday morning, prompting a large response from the U.S. Coast Guard and local fire crews alike.

The fire was reported to the Sector Delaware Bay Command Center around 1 a.m. The fire was located about 9 miles south of Port Mahon, according to a Coast Guard news release.

Crews fought the fire for several hours. Around 8 a.m., six fireboats were still actively fighting the fire, the Delaware News Journal reported.

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

There were no injuries and no evidence of pollution as a result of the fire, officials said. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The Coast Guard has requested that all mariners avoid the area.