On the afternoon of July 20, the passenger ferry KM Barcelona VA (MMSI: 525301973) caught fire in the Celebes Sea off the northern coast of Sulawesi Island, Indonesia. The KM Barcelona VA departed from the Talaud Islands headed for Manado with approximately 300 passengers when a fire broke out in the upper deck of the ferry. Thick black smoke billowed out of the superstructure as fire spread through out the vessel. Both crew and passengers were forced to jump into sea as the fire gutted the ferry.
The Indonesian Navy, Coast Guard and local fishermen all engaged in a search and rescue mission looking for survivors. Reports state that 284 people were rescued along the 5 bodies were recovered. Authorities continued to search for survivors as the total number of passengers and crew was not known.
Last report stated the KM Barcelona VA remained afloat after the fire was extinguished and would be taken under tow. Authorities have not reported the cause of the fire. News reports state the KM Barcelona VA had been delayed prior to its scheduled departure. There is some speculation the ferry was not in working order when it left port.
