Vessel Gutted by Fire in Hannah Bay
A blaze of unknown origin tore through the St Thomas-based vessel Kelly Jayne in Hannah Bay on Thursday afternoon, leaving the boat severely damaged but still afloat. Emergency crews and response vessels worked from the water to contain the fire; no injuries were visible in eyewitness footage and authorities have not yet released details on the cause or whether anyone was aboard.
A fire of unknown origin severely damaged a vessel berthed in Hannah Bay on Thursday afternoon, according to eyewitness footage and post-fire images shared on social media. Videos from the scene show intense flames and thick smoke rising from the St Thomas, USVI-based vessel Kelly Jayne as responders worked from the water, directing hoses at the burning craft while sirens sounded in the background.
At least one response vessel was alongside the Kelly Jayne as crews focused on bringing the blaze under control. By the time flames were largely contained the boat’s upper structure had been badly burned, with the cabin area visibly charred and partially collapsed. Photos taken after the fire showed the Kelly Jayne still afloat but heavily blackened, with smoke lingering above the hull.
Nearby boats and the surrounding marina appeared intact in the images, with responders concentrating on preventing the fire from spreading. Up to press time authorities had not issued a formal statement identifying how or where the fire began, nor had they confirmed whether the vessel was occupied when the blaze started.
No injuries were visible in the available footage. Hannah Bay is a frequently used maritime area where fishing craft and other vessels are berthed, and fires in such locations carry risks beyond the damaged boat itself. Responders at the scene appeared to prioritise containment to protect neighbouring vessels and infrastructure and to reduce the likelihood of fuel or debris contaminating the bay.
For BVI residents and boat owners, the incident is a reminder to maintain fire safety measures aboard vessels and to keep a clear line of communication with local authorities. Owners with boats in and around Hannah Bay are advised to monitor official updates, avoid the area while emergency crews operate, and check their berths for any signs of heat or smoke damage.
BVI Live will seek comment from relevant authorities and will update this story when an official statement is released or more information becomes available.
Primary source: BVI News