ST. THOMAS, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — On Sunday, May 31, at approximately 3:39 p.m., the Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services (VIFEMS) responded to a vessel fire off the coast of St. Thomas.
Marine One (VIFEMS’ marine firefighting and rescue vessel) responded to the incident alongside the United States Coast Guard, St. Thomas Rescue, and St John Rescue. Upon arrival in the area, responders located the vessel, which had become partially submerged and was sinking. The vessel’s sole occupant was found on an overturned dinghy and was safely rescued by the United States Coast Guard.
The occupant was then transferred to Marine One for assessment and was determined to be in stable condition. No injuries were reported, and medical treatment was not required.
The vessel was subsequently lost as a result of the incident. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the VIFEMS Arson Investigation and Prevention Unit.
VIFEMS is committed to rapid response, effective emergency operations, and the protection of life and property across the Territory.
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