URGENT UPDATE: A devastating three-alarm fire broke out on Portland’s waterfront, destroying one business and heavily damaging others, including boats docked at Custom House Wharf. The blaze ignited around 5:30 p.m. on Friday, October 13, 2023, and firefighters battled the flames well into the evening.
Witnesses aboard Casco Bay Lines ferries first reported the fire, prompting immediate calls to the Portland Fire Department. Deputy Fire Chief John Hendricks revealed during a news conference that the fire appeared to have originated in a boat repair shop, though the exact cause remains under investigation.
Flames quickly spread to the roof of the adjacent Maritime Antiques store at 27 Custom House Wharf, with additional damage reported at the Sea Bags Factory Store located at 25 Custom House Wharf. Thick smoke billowed over the harbor, visible from as far away as South Portland.
Fire crews launched an aggressive attack on the blaze from both the water and the roofs of nearby structures. Hendricks noted, “The fireboat quickly came right over and started deploying master streams from the harbor.” The fireboat played a crucial role as frozen hydrants burst, flooding about half the wharf.
Firefighters faced not only the raging flames but also treacherous, icy conditions, navigating nearly a foot of water as they fought to control the fire. Electricity was cut off in the area to prevent further spread and ensure firefighter safety.
Those battling the fire were forced to retreat from the roof of Maritime Antiques after a sudden surge of flames caused the roof to collapse, sending a cloud of smoke down the wharf toward Commercial Street. Hendricks commended the efforts of the teams on the ground, stating, “Everybody did a really great job to work really hard to stop the fire where we did.”
By 7:30 p.m., firefighters had managed to gain control of the blaze, slowly vacating the scene as they trudged through water-soaked debris. “I know a number of guys have wet feet tonight,” Hendricks said, emphasizing the tough conditions faced by the crews.
Fortunately, only one firefighter sustained a minor injury, and no civilian injuries were reported. As night fell, the once-chaotic scene transformed into a quiet wharf, where the sounds of remaining vehicles and shuffling investigators echoed in the cold air.
The repair shop is now nothing but rubble, while the roof of the antique store lies collapsed on its floor. Damage estimates include several boats that were docked nearby, with at least one reported to have sunk.
Custom House Wharf is a hub for local businesses, including popular seafood restaurants such as Harbor Fish Market and Boone’s Fish House & Oyster Room. The investigation into the fire’s cause will resume Saturday, with officials from the Office of the State Fire Marshal on-site to assess the extensive damage.
Hendricks confirmed that nearly 100 firefighters from Portland and surrounding areas, including Westbrook and South Portland, were activated to respond to the blaze. This collaborative effort underscores the seriousness of the incident, which has shaken the local community.
As the investigation continues, residents and business owners are left to grapple with the aftermath of this destructive fire. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
