Fourth of July boat explosion in Cecil County injured 9 people near Schaefer’s Canal House on Saturday afternoon. Seven victims were aboard the vessel, while 2 others stood on a nearby dock, according to Baltimore Chronicle.
Emergency crews received the first report at about 4:20 p.m. on July 4. The explosion occurred beside the waterfront seafood restaurant in Chesapeake City, Maryland.
Emergency crews transport victims to hospitals
Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 of Chesapeake City responded with Cecil County paramedics and other emergency agencies. Deputy state fire marshals also arrived to investigate the Cecil County boat explosion.
Officials released the following preliminary figures:
| Detail | Confirmed information |
|---|---|
| Total injured | 9 people |
| People aboard the boat | 7 |
| People on the dock | 2 |
| Emergency call | About 4:20 p.m. |
| Location | Schaefer’s Canal House, Chesapeake City |
Four patients were flown to hospitals by Maryland State Police and ChristianaCare crews. Another 3 victims were transported to local medical facilities by ground ambulances. Officials did not immediately disclose the destinations or conditions of the remaining patients.
The figures remained preliminary on Saturday evening. Authorities had not reported any deaths.
Cause of Chesapeake City boat explosion under investigation
The Maryland State Fire Marshal announced the investigation shortly before 7 p.m. Investigators had not identified what caused the blast or whether the boat caught fire afterward.
The response involved several agencies:
- Chesapeake City volunteer firefighters;
- Cecil County paramedics;
- Deputy State Fire Marshals;
- Maryland State Police aviation crews;
- ChristianaCare medical personnel.
Investigators are expected to examine the boat’s fuel system, engine compartment and electrical equipment. However, officials have not linked any specific component to the explosion.
The incident happened during the busy Fourth of July holiday, when waterways and waterfront businesses attract increased traffic. Authorities said further information would be released when it becomes available.
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