16 rescued from burning boat near Oak Street Beach

A fire broke out on a boat near Oak Street Beach Saturday afternoon, prompting the rescue of 16 people.

All occupants refused medical treatment, said Fire Media Affairs Director Larry Langford.

The fire started about 2:30 p.m. in the engine area of the boat, fire officials said.

“They sent a Mayday out to the marina; the Chicago Fire Department heard it, the Coast Guard heard it,” Langford said. “And a rescue commenced. The Coast Guard got there first and took them off.”

Langford added the boat suffered substantial damage and that the cause of the fire is under investigation.

The boat was later towed by a private company to harbor, Langford said.