The Austin Fire Department was dispatched to the 5500 block of Sendero Hills Parkway, following reports of a significant blaze accompanied by several explosions on Monday afternoon. According to the fire department's statement on social media, the incident occurred around 2:30 p.m. near Agave Neighborhood Park, as detailed by KXAN.
Initial reports indicated that a dump truck, and potential wood chipper were engulfed in flames, sparking the multiple explosions heard by witnesses. In response, the fire department urged drivers to avoid the area or seek alternate routes in anticipation of traffic delays, decided by, the fire's aftermath. CBS Austin reported that the Hazmat task force was called to the scene at 2:22 p.m.
AFD responding to a Hazmat task force in the 5500 block of Sendero Hills Pkwy. Multiple callers stating dump truck & possible wood chipper on fire with multiple explosions. Avoid the area & expect #ATXTraffic in the area. pic.twitter.com/Opn2gakL2R
— Austin Fire Info (@AustinFireInfo) October 28, 2024
While the fire prompted concern among residents and bystanders, officials confirmed there was no immediate threat to nearby homes or properties. The AFD extinguished a large equipment fire in addition to multiple secondary mulch pile fires that had ignited as a result.
The operation concluded at around 3:10 p.m. with the fire being successfully put out, and reports confirmed that there were no injuries sustained in the incident. Traffic disruptions were expected to ease following the clearance of the scene, clarified by, the authorities' updates.
