Fire struck an auto parts shop on North Clinton Avenue Thursday afternoon, sending a column of black smoke high into the air that could be seen city-wide. The two alarm fire broke out at the rear of All City Auto on Sunshine Street off North Clinton Avenue at about 2:45.
The first crew on scene quickly called a second alarm because the roof was already caving in and they were concerned about car gas tanks exploding.
Lt Dana Cieslinski says they had to fight the fire from outside, but all four employees got out safely and no firefighters were hurt. The cause is under investigation.
Witnesses who captured the scene on cellphone video say they heard several loud bangs from inside the building, as either tires or gas tanks did explode.