Portland Maine fire destroys building at historic Custom House Wharf
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Firefighters battled to contain a massive fire that broke out at a historic pier in Portland, Maine, Friday evening.
While one building became completely unusable in the fire that broke out at the Customs House Pier, other buildings were also damaged. FOX 23 reported.
Portland’s Old Port was an important center for the commercial fishing industry in the region in the 19th and early 20th centuries and is now a popular tourist area with restaurants and shops; Working fishermen still keep their boats there.
Deputy Fire Chief Jon Hendricks told FOX 23: “Unfortunately, it looked like the fire had a pretty good start on us when we got here, but the first companies did a great job and really aggressively attacked to keep the fire from spreading to the rest of the pier.”
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Firefighters respond to a fire at Custom House Wharf in Portland, Me., on Friday. (WGME)
The Porthole Restaurant and Pub on the pier reported being safe from the fire on Friday.
“If you need a familiar place to gather, the Porthole is open regular hours today,” the restaurant added Saturday. “Our hearts go out to everyone affected by last night’s fire at Custom House Wharf. We are grateful for the safety of first responders and our neighbors.”
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Maine Governor Janet Mills shared that she was watching the fire on social media last night.
Firefighters respond to a fire at Custom House Wharf in Portland, Me., on Friday. (WGME)
“I am aware of the Portland waterfront fire and my management is monitoring the situation. Please avoid the area and follow the instructions of local fire and public safety officials,” he wrote to X.
The fire broke out after 5 p.m. and was brought under control around 7:22 p.m., according to WBTS-TV.
One boat sank and others were damaged, Maine News Center reported.
Firefighters respond to a fire at Custom House Wharf in Portland, Me., on Friday. (WGME)
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Two firefighters also suffered minor injuries but were not taken to the hospital.
The cause of the fire is being investigated.
