California Yacht Loaded With Ammo and Fireworks Explodes, Sinks at Local Marina

Marina Del Rey, CA - October 11 2023

A 72-foot yacht packed with over 1,000 rounds of ammunition and fireworks exploded and sank at a popular marina in Los Angeles County, California, on Tuesday, causing a large explosion and fire that sent thick, black smoke into the sky. The incident occurred at the Marina Del Rey harbor, just after 11 a.m., and sent nearby residents fleeing in fear.

According to the Los Angeles County Fire Department, the yacht was docked at the marina when it suddenly exploded, sending debris and shrapnel flying through the air. The explosion caused a massive fire that quickly engulfed the yacht, which was fully engulfed in flames within minutes.

Firefighters Battle Blaze for Hours

Firefighters from multiple jurisdictions responded to the scene and battled the blaze for over two hours before it was extinguished. Witnesses reported hearing a series of loud explosions, followed by a large fireball that shot up into the sky.

"It was chaos," said one witness. "People were screaming and running for their lives. There was so much smoke and debris in the air, you couldn't see anything."

The cause of the explosion is still under investigation, but authorities believe that the yacht's cargo of ammunition and fireworks may have played a factor.

No Injuries Reported

Miraculously, there were no injuries reported in the incident, although several nearby boats were damaged by the explosion and fire. The Coast Guard has established a safety zone around the marina while the investigation continues.

Marina Reopens

The marina was closed to boat traffic for several hours after the explosion, but has since reopened. The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department is assisting with the investigation.

This is a developing story, and more information will be released as it becomes available.