A fire at the Fourwinds Boat Docks on Lake Monroe resulted in the destruction of three boats and damage to a fourth on the morning of March 13, 2024. The Monroe Fire Protection District reported that firefighters received a call around 08:00 regarding a boat that was ablaze. Upon arrival, crews encountered heavy smoke and flames involving multiple vessels.
Firefighters acted swiftly to contain the blaze, pushing the burning boats out of their slips to prevent the fire from spreading further. In total, three boats were destroyed in the incident, while one additional vessel sustained what officials classified as “moderate fire damage.” Fortunately, no injuries were reported as a result of the fire.
Following the initial incident, a second fire was reported later that day. Investigators found that a fuel spill from one of the previously burned boats reignited, leading to another outbreak of flames at the marina.
According to the Monroe Fire Protection District, a mechanical malfunction was determined to be the cause of the initial fire. The investigation remains ongoing, but officials have emphasized the importance of regular maintenance to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The swift response from firefighters and the subsequent investigation highlight the risks associated with boat maintenance and the need for vigilance at marinas. As the community reflects on this event, it serves as a reminder of the potential hazards that can arise from mechanical issues on watercraft.
