Auto Repair Shop Destroyed in Mount Vernon

(Mount Vernon, WA) – A fast-burning fire marked by explosions destroyed a well-established auto repair shop in south Mount Vernon Thursday night.  Mount Vernon Fire Department units were dispatched to the fire at 7:43 p.m., and quickly called for a second alarm.  Firefighters and apparatus from Burlington Fire Department, and Big Lake, McLean Road and Cedardale fire districts, also responded to the fire. The single-story metal construction building was fully involved in flames by the time the first fire units arrived. 

Firefighters were unable to attempt an interior attack on the fire due to intense heat and flames in the building.  Several explosions inside the building caused by propane tanks, acetylene welding equipment and overheated vehicle tires created hazardous conditions for the fire crews.  

 All of the building’s contents were destroyed or heavily damaged in the fire, including vehicles, numerous tools, electronic diagnostic equipment, and business records.  Several vehicles parked outside of the building, including two boats and a motor home, were also damaged or destroyed by the intense heat.  The initial damage estimate is approximately $300,000. 

 The business owner broke a window in an attempt to enter the building, but was forced to retreat due to heavy smoke.  He was transported to Skagit Valley Hospital for treatment to a wound from broken glass on his forearm that required stitches.  There were no other injuries in the fire.