The 77 meter long, 1650 dwt cargo vessel Xin Zhou caught fire while loading scrap at Toyohashi, Japan.  Local authorities dispatched fire fighters and fire fighting boats to the scene.  The burning scrap was removed from the hull and doused by water. After several hours, the fire fighters were able to bring the blaze under control. All crew on board were able to safely evacuate to the pier. Some of the crew suffered smoke inhalation.  Damage by the fire to the Xin Zhou was not reported. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.