A fire ravaged an auto body shop in the community of Wayland, Massachusetts yesterday. The fire rapidly grew, enough for onlookers like Jeff Horan to feel the heat "500 yards away," being described as a "raging inferno" according to CBS News.
The fire took over International Auto Body shop, causing multiple explosions. A building subsequently collapsed as smoke emerged from windows, prompting a 911 call from the Wayland Fire Department. A nearby station's swift firefighter response resulted in only one individual sustaining a minor leg injury and hospital transport as detailed in the Boston Globe.
Employee Mark Ceurvels, who smelled smoke, managed to evacuate the building, including his co-workers and his dog. But, upon seeing escalating flames, he appropriately contacted 911 for help CBS News reveals. The fire's believed cause was an overheated car paint-drying heater.
Explosions were traced back to six cars catch on fire inside the shop. A few external vehicles and flammable chemicals in the building added to the danger.
Wayland Fire Chief Neil McPherson explained the initial fight against the fire, with multiple explosions within the first 15 minutes, followed by a building collapse roughly 30 minutes later. Exposed, fallen power lines arced on the ground, proving a hurdle to extinguishing the flames.
Neighboring businesses such as Liberty Pizza of Cochituate and Wayland Town Cleaners also got involved. Local resident, Jeff Horan, noted the loss of the central Wayland business, saying, "We are going to miss this" WCVB highlights.
