PHOENIX (3TV/CBS 5) – Hundreds of propane tanks are scattered across a neighborhood near the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport as firefighters work to put out a massive fire at a nearby propane business Thursday afternoon. It happened at Bill’s Propane Service at 40th Street and Washington Street. Phoenix Fire Capt. Rob McDade said propane tanks are being shot 500 yards in the air. “They literally become missiles,” he said. “Very dangerous situation.” Phoenix Fire confirms so far, no one is injured. Firefighters cleared a one kilometer radius around the business. The Arizona Animal Welfare League has its main shelter nearby, but firefighters say it was evacuated but did not catch fire. Crews prevented the flames from spreading to any businesses.
An Arizona Department of Transportation camera showed flames pouring out of the business and thick black smoke could be seen for miles. It is unclear what caused the fire. Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport said the fire is not affecting flights. Gateway Community College was evacuated. Valley Metro said westbound light rail from East Valley will only go as far as the 50th Street and Washington Street station. Eastbound trains from West Valley will only go to the station at 24th and Washington Streets.
Firefighters say crews stopped a massive fire at a propane business from spreading and no one was injured in Phoenix.
McDade said this type of fire is more difficult to fight compared to a typical burning building. They have to surround him, cool the area and then turn off the gas.
Phoenix Police officers are assisting the Fire Department with traffic control related to a large fire in the area of 40th Street and Washington Street.
Please find an alternate way around the scene. pic.twitter.com/1XyfY7NmDz
— Phoenix Police (@PhoenixPolice) July 21, 2023
It happened at 40th Street and Washington Street.(Arizona Family)
Editor’s note: Story updated to say propane tanks could fly 500 yards, not just 500 feet.
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