Newport Fire Department crews quickly brought a boat fire under control early Saturday morning in Newport Harbor, with all three occupants — two adults and one dog — safely evacuating the vessel.
The incident began at 4:30 a.m. when Newport Fire Alarm received a call reporting a marine vessel fire in Newport Harbor on a mooring behind the Lobster Bar. Car 2 arrived at Market Square four minutes later and confirmed the boat fire, prompting the dispatch of Engine 1, Ladder 1, and Rescue 1 to launch Marine 6 from Perotti Park.
The occupants, who had been sleeping aboard the vessel, awoke to the smell of smoke and fire. After unsuccessful attempts to extinguish the blaze themselves, the two adults and dog managed to escape onto their 8-foot dinghy and safely reach Perotti Park.
Engine 5 confirmed the occupants were safe on land at 4:36 a.m., just as Marine 6 arrived on scene and began attacking the fire. Within one minute, Incident Command had requested a North Kingstown marine asset as backup.
Rescue 2 was dispatched to evaluate the occupants, and a second rescue unit from Middletown was called to assist with a second victim. By 4:52 a.m. — just 22 minutes after the initial call — Newport Marine 6 reported the fire was under control.
The Newport Harbor Master and U.S. Coast Guard were notified of the incident, and Sea Tow self-dispatched to the scene to assist.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. No injuries were reported, though the extent of damage to the vessel was not immediately available.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
