Walt Whitman Bridge accident : Crane catches fire at Gloucester City Terminal near Walt Whitman Bridge

A significant incident unfolded near the Walt Whitman Bridge in Gloucester City, New Jersey, as a large industrial crane caught fire. The blaze erupted around 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday at the Gloucester City Terminal, located at 160 Essex Street. Officials have preliminarily attributed the cause of the fire to an electrical issue within the crane.

Witnesses described seeing thick plumes of smoke rising towards the sky, which were visible from the nearby Walt Whitman Bridge. Despite the proximity to this major transportation route, traffic on the bridge was not affected, and vehicles continued to flow smoothly across the span. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, focusing their efforts on containing and extinguishing the fire to prevent further damage and potential hazards.

Firefighters worked diligently and were able to bring the flames under control by approximately 11:30 a.m. Their swift response and effective action were crucial in managing the situation and ensuring it did not escalate. Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries related to the incident, either among the crane operators or the emergency personnel.

The Gloucester City Terminal, an active industrial site near the Delaware River, is accustomed to handling various heavy machinery and equipment. The terminal's operations and the presence of such large cranes are vital for the handling and movement of goods, making the safety of these operations a priority. The fire incident has undoubtedly raised concerns regarding the maintenance and safety protocols of such equipment.

As the situation develops, further investigations will likely take place to determine the precise cause of the fire and to assess any potential damage to the crane and surrounding infrastructure. Local authorities and officials from the terminal are expected to review the incident thoroughly to prevent future occurrences.

Residents and commuters in the area are advised to stay updated through local news outlets as more information becomes available. The quick and effective response by the firefighters has been commended, ensuring that a potentially hazardous situation was managed without casualties. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety and preparedness in industrial operations.