UPDATE: A major fire erupted on January 12, 2024, at approximately 5:30 p.m. in Portland’s Old Port, destroying one business and causing extensive damage to others. The blaze, reported from Custom House Wharf, quickly escalated to a three-alarm fire, prompting a massive response from over 100 firefighters across Greater Portland.
Witnesses aboard Casco Bay Lines ferries reported seeing flames engulfing a boat repair shop, which is believed to be the fire’s origin. The flames rapidly spread to the Maritime Antiques store and the Sea Bags Factory Store, significantly damaging their structures. Smoke was visible over the harbor, alarming nearby residents.
Deputy Fire Chief John Hendricks confirmed that firefighters battled the fire from both land and water. “The fireboat quickly came right over and started deploying master streams from the harbor,” Hendricks stated. Firefighters faced not only the flames but also icy conditions, as frozen hydrants burst, flooding parts of the wharf.
Electricity in the surrounding area was shut off to prevent further spread and ensure the safety of emergency responders. Firefighters on the roof of Maritime Antiques were forced to retreat as flames erupted, leading to a roof collapse that sent a plume of smoke rolling toward Commercial Street.
“Given the age of the structures and the potential for fire spread, everybody did a really great job to stop the fire where we did,” Hendricks added.
Bystanders showed support for the firefighters, offering hot chocolate as they braved the cold conditions. The fire was brought under control by 7:30 p.m., allowing crews to slowly exit the scene after hours of intense work. One firefighter suffered a minor injury, but thankfully, no other injuries were reported.
By 9:00 p.m., the chaotic scene had subdued, with only the sounds of vehicles and shuffling feet remaining. The aftermath revealed the repair shop reduced to debris, the antique store’s roof collapsed inside, and several boats docked nearby sustaining damage, with at least one reportedly sinking.
Members of the Office of the State Fire Marshal are on-site conducting a preliminary investigation. “It could take time to determine the cause of the fire due to the extent of the damage,” Hendricks noted, emphasizing the challenging conditions firefighters faced throughout the incident.
As well-known seafood restaurants like Harbor Fish Market and Boone’s Fish House & Oyster Room sit nearby, the community is on high alert following this devastating fire.
Stay tuned for updates as the investigation continues and authorities work to determine the cause of this urgent incident.
