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Grand Island Crews Tackled a Boat Fire on the Niagara River

This article is a direct street report from our correspondent and has not been edited by the 1st Responder newsroom.

GRAND ISLAND, NY — August 5 — A fire on a boat at the Buffalo Launch Club on August 5 prompted a coordinated effort from fire departments, marine services, law enforcement, emergency medical services, and environmental agencies.


The Grand Island Fire Company, based at 2275 Baseline Road, was the first to arrive.

They found a 41-foot Sea Ray that was heavily engulfed in flames while docked at the marina.A 911 call was received around 12:30 p.m., as noted by local reports.


Firefighters set up a water supply and used several handlines, a master stream from the Grand Island Marine Unit, and Class B foam.

The response included the City of Tonawanda Fire Department Marine Unit, River Road Volunteer Fire Co.#3 Marine Unit, U.S.Customs and Border Protection Marine Unit, U.S.Coast Guard, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Grand Island Police Department, Erie County Sheriff's Office, New York State Police, Twin City Ambulance Corporation, and Sheridan Park Fire.


Containment booms were deployed due to concerns about fuel leaking into the Niagara River.

The boat was reported to have contained approximately 100 gallons of diesel and seven gallons of engine oil.The Coast Guard and the Department of Environmental Conservation helped with environmental protection efforts.


The fire caused damage to both the boat and the dock, and local reports indicated that the vessel was a total loss.

The cause of the fire was still under investigation.


The Buffalo Launch Club, located at 503 East River Road, operated a marina on the Niagara River.


This incident highlighted the difficulties faced during marine fire operations, such as accessing the vessel, dealing with nearby boats, handling fuel-related hazards, and protecting the environment.

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1RN News Team

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