Wells Firefighters Quickly Extinguish Vehicle Fire on Maine Turnpike
Photo by Wells Fire DepartmentWells Fire Department firefighters prepare to advance a hoseline as a fully involved SUV burns in the breakdown lane near Mile Marker 23 northbound on the Maine Turnpike.
Photo by Wells Fire DepartmentFirefighters apply water to the vehicle fire as heavy smoke drifts across the highway, with traffic lanes shut down for responder safety.
Photo by Wells Fire DepartmentA view from the apparatus shows thick black smoke rising from the SUV fire, which was visible from several miles away.
Photo by Wells Fire DepartmentCrews complete overhaul and extinguishment after knocking down the fire, with Engine 3 and Tank 2 supplying water on scene.
Photo by Wells Fire DepartmentFlames engulf the rear of the SUV prior to suppression, prompting a station coverage recall and mutual aid response during the incident.
WELLS, ME - The Wells Fire Department responded Thursday afternoon, January 24th, to a fully involved vehicle fire on the Maine Turnpike, bringing a swift and coordinated response that prevented injuries and limited the duration of traffic disruption.
At approximately 1:32 p.m., Wells Fire was dispatched to Mile Marker 23 northbound for a reported vehicle fire, with smoke visible from several miles away. Engine 3, Tank 2, and the Fire Chief responded, along with Wells EMS.
Upon arrival, crews found an SUV fully involved in the breakdown lane. Firefighters immediately stretched a 1¾-inch hoseline and placed water on the fire, quickly gaining control. Tank 2 supplied Engine 3 while Maine State Police closed the two nearest travel lanes to ensure responder safety.
Due to the working fire and highway conditions, a recall was initiated to provide coverage at the Wells fire station. An Ogunquit Fire Department engine covered the station until off-duty personnel arrived.
There were no reported injuries. Fire suppression operations were completed within approximately 20 minutes, after which crews turned the scene back over to Maine State Police and returned to service.
The Wells Fire Department thanked Wells EMS, Maine State Police, Ogunquit Fire Department, and Maine Turnpike Authority personnel for their assistance, noting that incidents on limited-access highways require rapid coordination and teamwork to ensure public and firefighter safety.
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