9 Injured in Boat Explosion at Maryland Marina

Nine people were injured after a boat exploded at a marina in Chesapeake City, Maryland, on Saturday afternoon, July 4, 2026, prompting a large emergency response.

Explosion Occurs After Refueling

The explosion happened around 4:20 p.m. at Schaefer’s Canal House, a waterfront restaurant and marina along the Chesapeake & Delaware Canal in Cecil County.

According to the Maryland Natural Resources Police, the 32-foot 1988 Wellcraft boat had just finished refueling and was tied to the dock when the explosion occurred.

Authorities said seven people were aboard the vessel, while two others standing on the nearby dock were injured by the blast.

Nine People Hospitalized

Emergency crews from multiple agencies responded to the scene.

Four victims with serious burn injuries were airlifted to regional trauma centers by medical helicopters. The remaining five victims were transported by ambulance to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Officials have not released the identities of those injured.

Investigation Underway

The Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal is investigating the cause of the explosion.

Investigators said they are examining whether the boat’s fuel vapor blower may not have been operating after refueling, allowing flammable gasoline vapors to build up in the engine compartment. Authorities emphasized that the exact cause has not been determined.

Despite the powerful blast, officials said the vessel did not catch fire after the explosion.