The General Auto Recycling facility in Tiverton, Rhode Island was the site of a large fire earlier today. Eyewitness reports included the hoots of explosions and a distinct popping sound. An ongoing effort to put out the flames is in progress, as stated by WHDH.
As per WJAR, residents were awoken at 2:30 a.m. by the sounds of the fire. The flames infiltrated heaps of decommissioned cars and parts. Addressing the explosions, Tiverton Fire Chief William Bailey stated these were likely due to certain car parts and not fuel tanks.
The closest hydrants were distant, creating difficulty in managing the intense fire, said WJAR. Bailey confirmed that getting the water supply ready and coordinating the shuttle of tankers was time-consuming. The process required the steady transportation of water from neighboring departments in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
Fire personnel from Rhode Island and Massachusetts responded to the emergency. Crushed cars in the lot were ablaze, according to WPRI.
The fire did not spread to any residential area. The owner of the facility assisted the efforts by moving debris and crushed cars, thus enabling access to concealed fire points. No injuries have been reported as of now and the state fire marshal's office is conducting an investigation into the cause of the fire, notes WPRI.
