On 2/23/1996 , the vessel MONICA J. (Official Number 383213) was involved in a fire in OFF WESTPORT, N.S.,.

The vessel, with 2 persons on board, experienced the incident while engaged in regular operations. There were 0 injuries and fatalities were reported, and there was minor pollution.

While engaged in fishing operations a fire broke out in the engine room. The crew were unable to extinguish the fire and were forced to abandon the burning vessel. Two crew picked up from liferaft and taken to Meteghan,NS.. Damage to the vessel was indicated as CONSTRUCTIVE TOTAL LOSS

Weather at the time was reported as rain with winds from the SW at 15.00 knots. This incident was officially recorded by Transport Canada on 3/25/1996 .