UPDATE: A massive three-alarm fire erupted on October 27, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. in Portland’s Old Port, devastating multiple businesses and damaging nearby boats at Custom House Wharf. Witnesses aboard Casco Bay Lines ferries reported seeing flames, prompting an immediate response from the Portland Fire Department.
The inferno began in a boat repair shop and quickly spread to the adjacent Maritime Antiques store and Sea Bags Factory Store, causing significant destruction. Deputy Fire Chief John Hendricks confirmed that the fire’s origin is still under investigation, with firefighters battling flames and icy conditions simultaneously.
Firefighters launched an aggressive attack from both land and water, utilizing fireboats as frozen hydrants burst, flooding the wharf. “The fireboat quickly came right over and started deploying master streams from the harbor,” Hendricks reported, highlighting the crucial support they provided as conditions worsened.
By 7:30 p.m., firefighters had brought the blaze under control, but not without challenges. The roof of the Maritime Antiques collapsed amidst the firefight, sending thick smoke billowing over the harbor. Thankfully, only one firefighter suffered a minor injury, with no reported civilian injuries.
The aftermath left a scene of devastation, with the boat repair shop reduced to debris and the antique store’s roof collapsed. Boats docked nearby also sustained damage, with at least one reportedly sinking. “A number of boats that were slipped on that side of the building did sustain some minor damage,” Hendricks said.
As firefighters wrapped up their efforts by 9:00 p.m., the once-chaotic wharf quieted to the sound of vehicles and investigators on the scene. Nearby seafood restaurants such as Harbor Fish Market and Boone’s Fish House & Oyster Room were not directly affected, but the community remains on edge as the investigation continues.
Approximately 100 firefighters from the Portland area and neighboring communities, including Westbrook, South Portland, and Cape Elizabeth, responded to the call. The Office of the State Fire Marshal is conducting a preliminary investigation and is expected to resume efforts on October 28, but the extent of the damage may prolong the determination of the fire’s cause.
As the community reflects on the incident, local residents expressed gratitude towards the firefighters who risked their safety to control the blaze. This urgent situation serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by emergency responders and the resilience of the Portland community. Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds.
