2 crew members killed and 1 hurt in ship fire at Port Houston, authorities say

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Two people died after a fire onboard a ship at Port Houston, according to authorities.

The Baytown Fire Department says the fire happened in the engine room of a vessel just before 4 a.m. at the Port Houston Barbours Cut Container Terminal.

Port Houston officials confirmed that two crew members from the ship died during the fire, and a third was transported to the hospital in critical condition via Life Flight for burns.

Officials said the ship was being fueled by a barge that pulled up alongside the vessel when the fire ignited.

Port Houston said the flames have since been contained, but the area will be monitored for 24 hours per protocol.

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo shared a statement following the incident, saying, in part:

"At this time, Harris County Pollution Control Services has confirmed that there is no threat to the surrounding community. Harris County extends our deepest to the deceased, the injured, and their families."

The Harris County Fire Marshal's Office was originally looking into the cause of the fire but said this is now a federal investigation. Port Houston confirmed the U.S. Coast Guard and NTSB are leading the investigation.

No other injuries or fatalities were reported.

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