Coast Guard investigates cause of boathouse fire

Photo of Coast Guard surveying aftermath of a boathouse fire

MENEMSHA, Mass. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Mike Montross, a gunner's mate from the Coast Guard Cutter Sanibel, surveys the damage caused by the boathouse fire July 13, 2010. Montross and the Sanibel crew have been on scene over night providing support from the water. Photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class James Rhodes, U.S. Coast Guard.

MENEMSHA, Mass. – The Coast Guard is investigating the cause of a boathouse fire that has been contained at Coast Guard Station Menemsha, Tuesday, July 13, 2010.

The fire started Monday at 2:42 p.m., and quickly engulfed the boathouse, pier and a truck with a boat trailer.

The 47-foot Motor Life Boat was moved from the pier after the boathouse caught on fire. The 25-foot Response Boat was located near Woods Hole, Mass., during the fire.

All 13 people that were at the station during the fire have been accounted for and are reported to be in good condition. There are currently 20 people assigned to Station Menemsha.

Coast Guard personnel from Marine Safety Detachment Cape Cod surveyed the damage of the pier and surrounding vessels this morning.

The cause of the fire is under investigation by federal and local agencies.

A claims number is being created for persons who have had property damaged due to the fire.

The Coast Guard Cutter Sanibel, a 110-foot patrol boat stationed at Woods Hole, Mass.,
is providing a safety zone and will remain the waterside on scene commander.

For more information on the fire, please contact U.S. Coast Guard District One Public Affairs at (617) 223-8515.

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