Damariscotta, Maine — July 31 — Firefighters from several Midcoast communities responded to a major structure fire at Chasse Marine Co. shortly after 10 a.m.

Crews encountered heavy fire at the boat storage and marine business. Firefighters from Damariscotta, Newcastle, Bristol, Bremen, Nobleboro and Waldoboro worked to contain the blaze, which took more than two hours to extinguish. One man suffered minor injuries and was treated and released from the hospital.

While Newcastle crews operated at the fire, the Alna Volunteer Fire Department provided station coverage in Newcastle, helping maintain emergency protection while resources were committed to the incident.

State fire investigators determined the blaze was accidental, with sparks from grinding operations or lithium-ion batteries identified as possible ignition sources. The multi-department response highlighted the role of regional mutual aid both at major incidents and in maintaining coverage for surrounding communities.