Galilee Boat Fires Deemed Suspicious

Firefighters investigating fires in Narragansett early Friday morning that burned three boats, sinking one, believe they were intentionally set.

The exact cause of the fire has not been determined, but officials said Friday afternoon that police are investigating the fires, along with the U.S. Coast Guard and the state Fire Marshal’s office.

Two docks were damaged in addition to the three boats: The Elizabeth Victoria, Gator and Blue Thunder -- all commercial fishing vessels docked in the Port of Galilee.

Robert Cherenzia, owner of Elizabeth Victoria, said that the boat was docked by itself when it caught fire and subsequently sank.

“First call I got was that the boat in front of me was in fire,” Cherenzia said. “When I got here, it was my boat.”

Cherenzia said he’s now out of work. He owns a vessel service and unloads boats, but with his boat destroyed, he’s facing a crossroads.

The fishing industry is a tough business in general, especially in recent years with mounting costs and complicated regulations. Port Manager Daniel Costa said the boat owners are “extremely worried about their future.”

Environmental police and crews from Clean Harbors worked to contain oil and fuel spilling from the sunken Elizabeth Victoria using booms.

“We are glad no one was injured, and will provide any support needed to come to a quick resolution. DEM’s Emergency Response team is also overseeing any necessary clean-up,” the DEM said in a statement.

The two boats that did not sink are being seized as evidence. Photos: Clyde Quahog