Charlotte Firefighters Contain Two-Alarm Blaze at Automotive Business Amid Hazmat Concerns
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Firefighters in northwest Charlotte responded to a two-alarm fire Tuesday night at an automotive equipment business that briefly posed an elevated hazardous materials threat, officials said.
According to the Charlotte Fire Department, crews were called around 8:22 p.m. to a commercial structure fire on the 7200 block of Mount Holly Road, where smoke was visible from the building. Firefighters encountered heavy flames upon entry, prompting a second alarm just over ten minutes later.
Firefighters Prevent Fuel Explosion Risk
Officials said the situation grew more dangerous due to the presence of diesel fuel inside the business. The materials could have caused an explosion or chemical contamination if ignited. Thanks to a coordinated response, firefighters were able to prevent the flames from spreading to the fuel storage areas.
The Queen City News reported that all employees were safely evacuated and no injuries were reported. The blaze was declared under control by 9:17 p.m., with no hazardous substances released and no public health risks identified.
EPA Monitors for Environmental Impact
As a precaution, the Environmental Protection Agency was contacted to assess potential runoff and air quality concerns in the area. Officials confirmed that no dangerous materials were released into the environment and that nearby communities were not at risk.
The Charlotte Fire Investigation Task Force is leading the investigation into what caused the fire. Damage estimates have not yet been released, but officials said the swift response prevented a much larger disaster.
Residents Praise Quick Action
Community members in northwest Charlotte expressed relief that firefighters acted quickly to contain the blaze before it could escalate. Several residents nearby reported seeing large plumes of smoke and emergency lights filling the sky during the height of the incident.
Fire investigators are expected to release more details once the cause is confirmed.
Residents who live or work near Mount Holly Road are encouraged to share their experiences and gratitude for first responders’ efforts at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.