A fierce blaze engulfed three luxury yachts early Friday morning at a marina along the Miami River, resulting in significant financial losses and prompting a large response from Miami-Dade firefighters. Investigators from the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office (MDSO) have confirmed to WSVN that the incident is being treated as a potential arson.
The fire erupted around 3:30 a.m. in the 3200 block of Northwest North River Drive, in proximity to the Miami Marine Center and the Jones Boat Yard. Over 30 units from the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR) team responded to the emergency, discovering three vessels ablaze—two measuring 60 feet and one stretching 90 feet in length.
Rescue teams attacked the fire from both land and water, employing specialized foam to prevent the flames from spreading to other vessels. Thick black smoke was visible from the Miami International Airport.
Despite the firefighters' efforts, one yacht sank, another was nearly consumed by the flames with only the bow remaining above water, and the third yacht stayed afloat but sustained severe damage, with its rear end melted and charred, as reported by WSVN.
By 6:30 a.m., the fire was under control, although crews remained on site to manage fuel spills and "minimize environmental impact on the water," according to an email from MDFR to Local 10. The department used oil absorbent booms to prevent the spread of toxic residues in the river.
"MDFR employs specialized oil spill response equipment involving an oil absorbent boom. This robust, net-like sleeve encases a highly absorbent material that soaks up oil and sheen from the surface," the statement detailed.
Shortly after the flames were subdued, both the Sheriff's Office and firefighters launched an investigation into the blaze's origins, which is being considered a possible deliberate act. Witnesses in the area told Telemundo 51 they heard an explosion before the fire rapidly spread across the vessels. Fortunately, there were no casualties or injuries, though the financial damage is estimated to be in the millions.
Authorities continue to gather evidence and scrutinize security footage to determine if the fire was intentionally set.
Key Questions About the Miami River Yacht Fire
What time did the Miami River yacht fire start?
The fire broke out around 3:30 a.m. on Friday morning.
How many yachts were involved in the Miami River fire?
Three luxury yachts were involved in the fire.
What measures were taken to control the environmental impact of the fire?
The Miami-Dade Fire Rescue used oil absorbent booms to prevent toxic residues from spreading in the river.