Port Arthur, Texas witnessed a heartbreaking incident early this morning when a commercial work boat exploded while docked near Taylor’s Bayou. The tragic accident occurred shortly after 7 a.m. on the boat ramp along West Texas Highway 73, according to local news reports.
Authorities have confirmed that two men died, and a third man was seriously injured in the explosion, which is now under investigation.
What Happened?
According to Captain Ryan Hall of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the explosion happened shortly after the boat was refueled but before it left the dock. It’s believed that gas fumes collected in the area and ignited, though the exact cause of the spark remains unknown.
Port Arthur Interim Deputy Fire Chief Antonio Mitchell explained,
“We were actively working that scene for over an hour trying to get the people off that boat. We did CPR on two males, and a third has compound fractures.”
Agencies Involved in the Investigation
The Port Arthur Fire Department is leading the investigation, but several other agencies are also involved, including:
- Port Arthur Police Department
- U.S. Coast Guard
- Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
These teams are working together to understand what led to the deadly explosion and to ensure safety moving forward.
Possible Cause: Gas Fume Ignition
Interim Chief Mitchell shared that early signs point to a build-up of gas fumes that may have leaked from the fuel system or storage container. Once collected in the area, they likely came in contact with an ignition source, leading to the explosion.
“Basically, gases collected, found a source of ignition, and exploded,” said Mitchell.
“It could’ve been a leak that allowed fumes to escape their container. Once the concentration built up, it only needed a spark to set it off.”
Victims Identified
Justice of the Peace Joseph L. Guillory confirmed the identities of the two men who lost their lives:
- A 45-year-old man from Abbeville, Louisiana
- A 41-year-old man from Houma, Louisiana
The third man, who survived, is being treated for serious injuries, including compound fractures.
Investigation Continues
As of now, the exact cause of the explosion is still under investigation, and officials are urging the public to wait for verified updates.
This incident is a grim reminder of the risks involved in marine operations, especially during fueling. Authorities will continue to examine the case closely to prevent similar tragedies in the future.