DATE & TIME:  05/24/2025 @ 11:09AM
INCIDENT TYPE:  Boat Fire 
ADDRESS/LOCATION:  American Marine 1630 E 16th St

The Dubuque Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at 11:08 AM from the boat owner that their vessel was on fire at the American Marine. The Dubuque Fire Department was dispatched to the scene at 11:09 AM.  Initial responding vehicles included Battalion 1, Marine 1 (staffed by Engine 1), Engine 3, Engine 6, Truck 1, Truck 4, and Medic 1. The response brought 15 firefighters in total on the initial alarm.

The first unit, Battalion 1, arrived on scene within 5 minutes of dispatch, established command, and directed the initial companies for fire attack. Upon arrival, firefighters found heavy smoke and flames coming from a vessel docked at the marina. Fire crews initiated an aggressive attack, deploying hose lines and working alongside marina staff to ensure the safety of nearby vessels and prevent the fire from spreading. The fire was contained to the original vessel and extinguished within 15 minutes of the first unit's arrival. No injuries to civilians or firefighters were reported. One vessel sustained significant damage, and minor damage was reported to adjacent vessels and to the covered marina. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Dubuque Fire Department. The vessel was determined to be a total loss.

Media Contacts:  
Assistant Chief on Duty, 563.589.4172
Fire Marshal Kevin Esser, 563.589.4161, Kesser@cityofdubuque.org

Please do not reply to this message. For incident-specific information, please contact the staff identified in the message above.  For general fire and emergency medical services information, visit www.cityofdubuque.org/fire or contact the Dubuque Fire Department at 563.589.4160 or fire@cityofdubuque.org.  

In an emergency, always call 9-1-1. For non-emergency dispatch, call 563.589.4415.