Gerard Schmitter
The 110 meter long passenger ship Gerard Schmitter caught fire while on the Rhine River near Krefeld, Germany. The vessel was attempting to berth at Krefeld when a malfunction started an electrical fire in the engine room. The burning wires sent out a strong acrid smoke cloud forcing all 154 passengers and 34 crew to evacuate the vessel. The local fire brigade arrived on scene and were able to extinguish the blaze in short time. One passenger had to be taken to hospital after suffering a breakdown while one crewman suffered a slight injury. The water police have launched an investigation. The passengers where taken to Krefeld and were allowed to reboard the vessel later that night. Repairs to the vessel will be completed on June 18th allowing the Gerard Schmitter to continue on its voyage from Amsterdam to Strasbourg. Reports state the damage is estimated at 50000 €.
