NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — The union that represents Staten Island Ferry workers claims the fire that resulted in the evacuation of hundreds of commuters on Thursday was caused by a fuel leak.
City officials have not yet confirmed the cause of the fire, but the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association told SILive staff onboard the Sandy Ground identified the cause as a fuel leak.
The vessel only entered service in June.
FDNY and NYPD vessels rushed to evacuate passengers after the boat was immobilized near the Statue of Liberty.
Five people suffered minor injuries, three of whom were hospitalized.
Authorities said the city is legally required to wait 24 hours before staff can return to the boat and investigate.
During this 24-hour period, officials will monitor temperatures to make sure the fire is fully extinguished.
The Coast Guard will lead the investigation into the fire.
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