A burning electric vehicle re-charging at an underground parking garage caught fire and burned Wednesday, prompting evacuations, a second alarm to help battle the fire, a Shelter in Place order from city officials to nearby residents and a rare decontamination order for firefighters assigned to the blaze.
The fire was reported minutes before 5 p.m. in the third floor underground parking level at 2121 N. California, quickly upgrading to the second alarm call as on-scene commanders realized the scope of their efforts. The fire involved a 2023 Jeep Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid vehicle, according to firefighters.
Firefighters who came in contact with toxic smoke from the fire were ordered to turn in their uniforms and gear for decontamination. People in the building reported smelling “foul smelling, toxic” fumes before an evacuation order was given, smoke from the scene spotted rising from ground level vents on the surface.
Smoke from the Mount Diable Plaza parking facility prompted a Shelter In Place order from the city at approximately 7p.m.
I had “fortuitous” timing of emerging from my office across the street about 530 pm. Needless to say traffic was disrupted and ride back to the homestead was circuitous.
“Circuitous” AND “Fortuitous!” That’s why you’re a big deal around here, Jeff!
What idiot designated a Lithium ion battery instead of NIMH like Toyota uses.
It wasn’t us… we’re still working on our rubber band powered prototype…