U-Boat Attack West of Ireland
The SS Pan New York was torpedoed by U-624 about 550 miles west of Malin Head, Northern Ireland. She was carrying 88,000 barrels of gasoline. The explosion from the torpedo blew gasoline over the ship aft of the tank. Flames and fumes were sucked down into the engine room and crew's quarters, causing many to be overcome with smoke and fumes. Flames upon the water and rough seas prevented the rafts and the only remaining lifeboat from being launched. Survivors gathered aft to await rescue.
