A significant fire has completely destroyed a key live lobster storage facility in northeastern New Brunswick. The Stonehaven Lobster Co., located in Stonehaven just outside Bathurst, was largely levelled by flames on Thursday, December 18, 2025.
Details of the Devastating Blaze
The fire broke out at the facility, which specialized in holding live lobsters. Firefighters responded to the scene, but the intensity of the flames proved difficult to contain. The structure was reported as being "largely levelled" by the fire, indicating near-total destruction of the building and its operational infrastructure.
Impact on the Local Lobster Industry
The destruction of the Stonehaven Lobster Co. facility represents a serious blow to the regional seafood industry. Live lobster storage is a critical link in the supply chain, ensuring product quality and viability between harvest and market. The loss of this facility will disrupt operations for local harvesters and buyers who relied on its services. The incident occurs amid reports of low lobster prices driving high sales in neighbouring Nova Scotia, highlighting the complex market dynamics in the Atlantic Canadian fishery.
Response and Next Steps
Authorities are expected to investigate the cause of the fire in the coming days. The focus for the community and the business owners will now shift to assessing the total financial loss and determining the future of the operation. The fire serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by resource-based industries in the region. The community of Stonehaven and the broader Bathurst area will likely feel the economic ripple effects of this loss.
No injuries have been reported in connection with the fire. Further details regarding the cause and a full damage assessment are pending from local officials and fire investigators.
