NEW BEDFORD, Mass. — Emergency crews responded to a dramatic vehicle fire along Route 18 South near Purchase Street, prompting a swift response from local firefighters.
Responders were dispatched following initial reports of a blaze on the highway. Units including Engine 8, Ladder 4, and Unit 1 immediately rushed to the scene.
Upon arrival, Unit 1 reported that the vehicle was fully engulfed in flames, with heavy fire and thick black smoke billowing into the air. Recognizing the scope of the blaze, officers on scene determined that Engine 8 could handle the suppression efforts independently, allowing Ladder 4 to clear and return to service.
No immediate injuries were reported, and firefighters worked quickly to knock down the flames and secure the area. Traffic along Route 18 South experienced minor delays while crews contained the fire and cleared the wreckage.
