Video: Fire hits 35 boats at fishing pier in Ecuador

A large fire started around noon on Saturday (6), local time, in the artisanal area of the fishing pier in Manta, Ecuador, affecting 35 vessels, according to the latest official report.

Authorities reported that 14 fishing boats and 21 smaller vessels were damaged after flames spread to vehicles anchored about 80 meters offshore.

Access to the port area was restricted while emergency crews controlled the fire and assessed the damage. The cause of the fire is still unknown.

Videos from witnesses showed boats on fire, thick black smoke rising over the harbor, people pulling a burning vessel and firefighters working to extinguish the fire.

Reuters verified the location of the videos based on buildings, street layouts and power poles, which matched archival and satellite images of the location.

The date was confirmed through image comparison and an official confirmation from the local government of Manta.

See images of the fire

Fire hits 35 boats at fishing pier in Ecuador; watch the video | CNN BRAZIL

Source: CNN