Fire erupted on board of purse seiner (tuna fishing) MARIA VERONICA, docked at Manzanillo, Mexico, readying to depart for fishing, on Oct 1. Fire quickly spread into major, engulfing vessel in flames and billowing heavy smoke with toxic fumes. Some 1200 people, mainly port personnel, were evacuated. Vessel capsized and sank portside along the berth, similar to recent major fire accident in Norway, when Russian trawler BUKHTA NAEZDNIK capsized during firefighting. Fire was said to be caused by wielding works.
Purse seiner MARIA VERONICA, IMO 8030075, GT 1127, flag Mexico.
Author
Erofey is a Merchant Marine Captain with more than 20 years experience in commanding oil tankers. He works as a Captain, being most of his time at sea. He contributes maritime news.