Four businesses and multiple boats were seriously damaged in a fire that broke out in Portland, Maine's waterfront district last weekend.

A fire was reported at the Custom House Wharf in downtown Portland around 5:30 p.m. on Friday. Despite a rapid response from the fire department, the spread to four adjacent commercial establishments, burning their roofs and causing widespread damage that was not brought under control until around 7:20 p.m.

A maritime store, a nautical-themed bag shop, and a building used to store fishing gear were among the businesses affected by the blaze. According to a spokesperson for a fishermens association who spoke with the Boston Herald, several boats sank due to the fire damage, while others were also damaged.

Firefighters faced difficult working conditions, including access to the building due to the pier, structural collapses, cold weather making the job challenging, and frozen hydrants that hindered shore-side firefighting efforts. Aboat from the harbor side sprayed water to assist in extinguishing the flames. Two rescue workers sustained minor injuries, but there were no reports of serious injuries among personnel, either inside the building or among bystanders.

Reportedly, the wharf was used by a dozen lobster fishermen. Local businesses are reaching out to offer additional to these boat operators, helping them find alternative arrangements. The Maine Coast Fishermen's Association has set up a donation page for the public to contribute to the cause. The association it has raised more than $12,000 so far.

Investigators have not yet identified any suspects in the fire, which is still under investigation, to local fire departments.