A Coast Guard C-130J Super Hercules aircrew from Coast Guard Air Station Kodiak conducts an overflight of a fire aboard the cargo vessel Morning Midas approximately 260 miles southwest of Adak, June 8, 2025. [U.S. Coast Guard photo courtesy of Air Station Kodiak]
Assessment and Response to Morning Midas Fire
The salvage operation for the car carrier Morning Midas, which is currently engulfed in flames, is well underway. Resolve Marine has dispatched three tugs to the scene, with the first tug, Dunlap Towing Company’s Gretchen Dunlap, already conducting a full assessment of the situation.
Two additional tugs equipped with firefighting and towing capabilities are en route to provide further assistance. The operator of Morning Midas, Zodiac Maritime, has reported that there are no signs of pollution in the water, and the vessel’s structural integrity remains intact despite the ongoing fire.
Voyage Details and Response Efforts
The vessel, carrying over 3,000 vehicles including electric and hybrid models, was en route to Lázaro Cárdenas, Mexico, from Yantai, China. The fire was first reported on June 3, prompting a coordinated response from the Coast Guard and Zodiac Maritime.
Coast Guard overflights have confirmed the absence of pollution, and monitoring of the vessel’s position and condition is ongoing. Weather conditions, with strong winds and rough seas, are being closely monitored to ensure the safety of all involved parties.
Environmental Protection Measures
While the focus remains on extinguishing the fire and preventing environmental impact, an environmental pollution control plan has been developed in collaboration with the Coast Guard. Spill response assets are on standby to address any potential pollution incidents.
Zodiac Maritime expresses gratitude for the support and cooperation of the U.S. Coast Guard in managing the situation. Safety and environmental protection continue to be top priorities as the salvage operation progresses.