On August 18, 2025, an explosion rocked the Liberian bulk carrier W-Sapphire in Baltimore’s harbor near the site of the 2024 Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse. The incident caused significant damage but resulted in no injuries to the 25 crew members aboard, prompting a major emergency response amid ongoing bridge reconstruction efforts.
At approximately 6:30 PM EDT, the 751-foot coal carrier experienced an explosion while transiting the Patapsco River near the remains of the collapsed Key Bridge. Baltimore City Fire Department responders found the vessel showing “damage consistent with fire and explosion,” though the ship remained afloat. The W-Sapphire had been outbound from Baltimore Harbor when the blast occurred.
The U.S. Coast Guard immediately established a 2,000-yard safety zone while coordinating with Baltimore police and fire teams. Tugboats assisted the damaged vessel back to port as firefighters contained the blaze. Petty Officer Matthew West confirmed no injuries but noted the cause remains unknown, with investigations underway by multiple agencies.
Eyewitnesses Jay and Sam Steinmetz, sailing nearby, described a “200-foot plume of smoke” followed by mayday calls. “We heard a really loud explosion,” said Jay Steinmetz. “Within minutes, we saw other vessels racing toward the cargo ship.” The father and son initially mistook the blast for controlled demolition of the Key Bridge wreckage.
The incident occurred during active reconstruction of the Key Bridge, which collapsed in March 2024 after being struck by the cargo ship Dali. Maryland Governor Wes Moore recently confirmed the $1.9 billion replacement project remains on schedule for 2028 completion, with ongoing demolition of the original bridge’s foundations.
Maritime safety concerns are heightened as the explosion happened in one of America’s busiest shipping corridors. The Port of Baltimore handles over $80 billion in annual cargo, and temporary channel closures could disrupt supply chains. Coast Guard officials confirmed the explosion didn’t cause new obstructions in the recently dredged 700-foot-wide channel.
Investigators will examine potential causes including mechanical failure, cargo issues (coal dust combustion risks), or structural problems. The National Transportation Safety Board has dispatched a team, while the W-Sapphire’s operator faces mandatory drug/alcohol testing of crew under maritime protocols.
Immediate next steps include complete damage assessments and environmental checks for potential coal residue leakage. The incident renews focus on port safety as Baltimore accelerates bridge reconstruction, with new design features including wider shoulders and 100-year lifespan specifications already planned.