09/07/2026
It's San Pedro's "Where were you when...?" moment.
On the evening of December 17, 1976, the 70,000-ton Liberian oil tanker SS Sansinena exploded in the Outer Harbor of the Port of Los Angeles when a hydrocarbon v***r cloud over the ship's deck was ignited by an unknown source. The blast split the ship in two, triggered an inferno that burned for days, and resulted in widespread damage, shattering windows for miles. Nine people were killed and 46 were injured.
SPHM is planning a community storytelling event later this year to commemorate the 50th anniversary of this catastrophe in our town's history, and we want to hear from you. Share your memory or personal story related to the SS Sansinena explosion by completing a submission form at: bit.ly/sansinena ๐
๐ธ: Paul M***a