An apparent explosion aboard a cargo ship occurred in Baltimore Harbor, Chesapeake Bay, Maryland, on Monday, sparking flames and smoke visible from nearby areas. Video footage of the incident has surfaced online, showing fire erupting from the vessel.
The incident reportedly happened as the ship passed near the remains of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.
Authorities Confirm Fire Containment
Baltimore City fire officials told WBAL-TV that the fire has been fully contained. No injuries have been reported aboard the ship, confirmed John Marsh, spokesperson for the Baltimore Fire Department.
Mike Singer, a member of the Baltimore and Chesapeake Bay Shipwatchers, said the blast occurred around 6:28 p.m. The vessel, carrying a load of coal, had recently departed from the CSX Coal Dock.
While authorities have not officially confirmed the cause of the fire as an explosion, maritime radar data indicates the ship is the W SAPPHIRE, a bulk carrier currently flagged under Liberia.
Port of Baltimore can’t catch a break.
Cargo ship suffers explosion. What’s remaining of the Key Bridge in the background. pic.twitter.com/nyvAjYxQjW— LibertyLark (@Usetheschwartz_) August 18, 2025
Details About the Vessel
- Ship Name: W SAPPHIRE
- Call Sign: D5AF7
- IMO Number: 9605645
- MMSI Number: 636023364
- Departure: Baltimore, August 18, 5:55 p.m.
- Destination: Port Louis, Mauritius (estimated arrival September 23)
The fire reportedly originated from an under-deck blaze, sending smoke billowing into the air. The ship has since been removed from the area.
Video Captures the Moment of Fire
Social media videos show flames erupting from the cargo ship, leading to speculation that the fire may have been caused by an explosion. Authorities are still investigating the exact cause of the incident.
Historical Context: Francis Scott Key Bridge
The Key Bridge was previously the site of a tragic accident on March 26, 2024, when the container ship MV Dali, a Singapore-flagged vessel, lost power and collided with the bridge. The impact caused the bridge to collapse, sending vehicles and construction workers into the Patapsco River.
