By: Richard L. Smith
A devastating boat fire in Newark Friday night claimed the lives of two individuals as arson detectives launched an investigation into the cause of the deadly blaze.
According to preliminary reports, emergency responders were called to the intersection of Pennsy Place and Pershing Avenue shortly before 8:55 p.m. after receiving reports of a boat engulfed in flames.
Upon arrival, firefighters discovered a fully involved yacht, with flames rapidly spreading to another nearby vessel.
Bystanders on the scene urgently alerted crews that at least two people were trapped aboard the burning boat, prompting an intense rescue effort.
Firefighters quickly stretched multiple lines to battle the inferno and managed to knock down the flames within an hour.
Tragically, during their search of the most severely damaged vessel, crews discovered two individuals suffering from fatal injuries.
They were pronounced dead at the scene.
Essex County law enforcement officials joined Newark arson detectives at the site as the investigation into the fire’s origin and circumstances remains active.
Authorities have yet to release further details on the victims or potential causes of the fire.
Updates will be provided as Newark Police continue their investigation.