Fire causes shutdown of the El Jobean Fishing Pier

Multiple fire crews responded to a fire at the El Jobean Fishing Pier, which caused the fishing spot to be closed until repairs can be made.

According to Charlotte County Public Safety, fishermen reported the fire after witnessing smoke from the bottom of the pier at around 6:40 p.m. Tuesday.

A Charlotte County fire station across the pier responded to the fire, detailing that flames were seen burning the railings on the left side of the El Jobean Fishing Pier.

Multiple crews were called to combat the blaze.

No injuries were reported.

According to public safety officials, about 100 feet of the structure on the north side of the pier, which is closest to land, was damaged.

Most of the fire was seen burning under the walking deck, making reaching it very difficult.

While damage was reported on the pier’s topside, firefighters stated that most of the damage was underneath the structure.

“It’s just a shame that it happened, but I’m glad that the fire department did have a way to access it from the waterside, which is very nice,” said Bill Ksiazek, who lives in El Jobean.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation; however, a press release from Charlotte County Public Safety suggested a high probability of cause due to careless handling of a cigarette butt.