BLOOMINGTON – Monroe Fire Protection District firefighters responded to a report of a vehicle fire near a house in the 3000 block of South Crxamer Circle at 3 a.m., Tuesday, May 30.
Responding to the scene was Engines 22, 29, Ladder 21, and Ellettsville Fire Department Engine 81.
The fire was reported by a neighbor who was awakened by a loud explosion sound and spotted the vehicle on fire in the neighbor’s driveway. They called 911 and began knocking on the neighbor’s door to get them out of the house. The homeowner of the initial house also reported hearing a couple of loud boom sounds before one occupant noticed smoke in the residence.
Battalion 22 arrived on the scene reporting two vehicles were on fire in the driveway and the fire was spreading to the front of the home.
Firefighters knocked down the fire spreading to the home before working back to extinguish the two cars on fire.
All occupants were reported to be outside of the homes when firefighters arrived, except for one dog.
Fire crews conducted a search of the affected homes for any occupants and the missing dog. It was later found that the dog had exited the home on its own and was reconnected with its owner.
Once all fire was extinguished firefighters conducted salvage and overhaul operations looking for any hidden fires. While firefighters were checking the houses for any fire, a carbon monoxide monitor was used to check the air quality. High levels of carbon monoxide were found in the basements of the houses. Firefighters used a positive pressure fan to clear any smoke and toxic gas before allowing individuals back inside.
In all, three vehicles and three residences were damaged by the fire.
The cause of the fire was ruled accidental due to a mechanical failure on the vehicle.
One resident complained of a minor injury from trying to get out of the house quickly. They were checked by an IU Lifeline ambulance crew but were not transported to a local hospital.
The American Red Cross was contacted to assist the residents with any needs they might have.
