A massive electrical fire erupted on a cargo ship docked at the Port of Los Angeles on Friday, November 21, 2025, triggering a major emergency response and disrupting port operations. All 23 crew members aboard the “One Henry Hudson” were safely evacuated, with no injuries reported, marking a significant success in a complex and hazardous firefighting operation. The Port of Los Angeles Fire response was immediate and extensive.
Port of Los Angeles Fire and Ship Explosion
The blaze, later identified as a Port of Los Angeles Fire incident, was first reported below deck of the 1,102-foot container ship “One Henry Hudson” at approximately 6:38 p.m. The fire quickly spread across several levels of the vessel. Just before 8 p.m., a ship explosion occurred mid-deck, causing a significant disruption that knocked out power to the ship’s lights and crane operations. The incident prompted the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) to declare a “major emergency” at the Port of Los Angeles, the busiest seaport in North America. This Port of Los Angeles Fire event necessitated an unprecedented mobilization.
Massive Emergency Response to Port of Los Angeles Fire
More than 100 firefighters, and by late evening up to 186 personnel, from the LAFD and the Long Beach Fire Department responded to the scene of the Port of Los Angeles Fire. They were supported by the Los Angeles Port Police and the U.S. Coast Guard. Marine units worked to cool the exterior of the ship, while specialized Hazardous Materials (HazMat) teams were deployed to monitor air quality due to the presence of hazardous materials identified within the ship’s cargo. Firefighters donned protective suits and self-contained breathing apparatus for their safety during the Port of Los Angeles Fire.
Crew Evacuation Amidst Port of Los Angeles Fire
Initial reports indicated that six crew members were unaccounted for, raising immediate concerns during the Port of Los Angeles Fire. However, through coordinated efforts by fire and port police personnel, all 23 crew members were safely assisted off the vessel by approximately 8:30 p.m. The successful crew evacuation without injuries was a primary focus and achievement of the emergency response to the Port of Los Angeles Fire.
Hazardous Materials Alert During Port of Los Angeles Fire
The “One Henry Hudson” was carrying hazardous materials, necessitating a cautious and highly protected approach by first responders dealing with the Port of Los Angeles Fire. LAFD HazMat crews continuously monitored air quality in the vicinity, and authorities recommended that residents in nearby areas, including San Pedro and Wilmington, stay indoors with windows closed and ventilation systems turned off due to the hazardous materials alert. The U.S. Coast Guard established a one-nautical-mile safety zone around the vessel to ensure the security of the area.
Port Operations Disruption from Ship Explosion and Fire
The ship explosion and ensuing Port of Los Angeles Fire significantly impacted port operations. Power disruptions affected cranes, and four of the Port of Los Angeles’s seven container terminals temporarily suspended operations. In response to smoke and visibility concerns, the California Highway Patrol closed all lanes of the Vincent Thomas Bridge closure, a critical artery connecting San Pedro to Terminal Island, causing traffic disruptions and advising drivers to seek alternate routes.
Background of the “One Henry Hudson” and the Port of Los Angeles Fire
The “One Henry Hudson” sails under Panama’s flag and is operated by One Ocean Express, a shipping company headquartered in Singapore. The vessel had arrived at the Port of Los Angeles on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, following a journey from Tokyo. While the exact cause of the electrical fire remains under investigation, officials noted that the ship was built in 2008. This Port of Los Angeles Fire incident is being thoroughly investigated.
Official Statements and Ongoing Monitoring of the Port of Los Angeles Fire
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass emphasized that the city was monitoring the incident closely, stating, “First responders are on the scene with more than 100 firefighters working to suppress the fire and Port Police are working to assist the crew to safety.” Governor Gavin Newsom’s office was also briefed and coordinating support for the emergency response to the Port of Los Angeles Fire. Federal, City, and Port officials are cooperating to extinguish the fire and manage the situation.
As firefighting efforts continued through the night to combat the Port of Los Angeles Fire, the “One Henry Hudson” remained afloat, despite the significant amount of water used in suppression. The incident highlights the critical role of emergency services in ensuring safety and mitigating damage during complex industrial emergencies in major port environments. This developing news story continues to be monitored for further updates on the Port of Los Angeles Fire’s containment and the ongoing investigation into its cause. This event serves as a crucial reminder of the potential hazards present in global shipping and the readiness of Los Angeles’s emergency services.
