A deadly fire broke out aboard the KM Barcelona VA ferry near Indonesia's North Sulawesi coast on Sunday, July 20, leaving at least five people dead, according to a report by Chinese state media Xinhua.
Fire Breaks Out Off Manado Coast
The fire began around 1 pm local time while the ferry was sailing near Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi province. The vessel was quickly engulfed in flames, making it difficult for many passengers to escape.
Rescue Efforts Save 150 People
Rescue teams rushed to the scene soon after the fire was reported. Veri Ariyanto, a senior official from the provincial Search and Rescue Office, told Xinhua, “Three people were killed, and nearly 150 were rescued safely. They were rescued by the joint rescue team and local fishermen’s boats.”
By Sunday night, at least 150 passengers had been pulled from the water and brought to safety. However, many were still missing.
Over 130 People Still Missing
Officials confirmed that around 130 people were still unaccounted for. Search and rescue operations continued overnight. Two larger ships, several inflatable boats, and other vessels have been deployed to find the missing passengers, according to Ariyanto.
Scenes of Panic Caught on Video
Videos shared on social media showed terrifying scenes as the fire spread. Thick black smoke poured from the ferry, and people were seen jumping into the ocean to escape the flames. In one video, frightened passengers wearing life jackets and holding life rings prepared to jump from the burning ship.
🇮🇩 A fire broke out around 1:30 p.m. local time today. local time today on the KM Barcelona VA ferry off the coast of North Sulawesi, #Indonesia.
— Martin Kuban 🇩🇪 (@_MartinKuban) July 21, 2025
The vessel, carrying over 280 people from the Talaud Islands to Manado City, forced passengers to leap into the sea. pic.twitter.com/ax5JR0WDRT
Another survivor filmed himself holding a baby as he floated in the sea, after managing to escape the burning ferry.
More from the ferry fire off the coast of North Sulawesi, Indonesia today. Thank goodness this little one is OK.
— Volcaholic 🌋 (@volcaholic1) July 20, 2025
ALWAYS wear a lifejacket!
A fire broke out around 1:30 p.m. local time today on the KM Barcelona VA ferry off the coast of North Sulawesi, Indonesia.
The… pic.twitter.com/egfvZMMLva
Search Operation Ongoing
The rescue teams, assisted by local fishermen, are continuing efforts to locate the missing passengers. Authorities have not confirmed the cause of the fire yet, and investigations are expected to begin after the search mission ends.