NEW BEDFORD - A diesel fuel spill in New Bedford's harbor has been contained.

New Bedford Fire Chief Michael Gomes tells WBSM News the spill was reported around 7:15 a.m. by the crew of the fishing vessel "Predator," which is docked at Leonard's Wharf.

According to Gomes, the crew had been performing maintenance work to the vessel when diesel fuel spilled into the engine room, causing the bilge pump to force the fuel into the harbor.

Chief Gomes says because the spill was promptly reported, the fire department was able to quickly contain the less than 20 gallons of fuel with booms.

A private contractor is now cleaning up the spill.

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