Nelson Fire Rescue responded to three motor vehicle incidents in less than two hours Monday night, starting with a pair of car accidents and followed by an engine fire in the Panago parking lot.
The first accident, which occurred at approximately 9 p.m., involved two vehicles on the 500-block of Baker St. Upon arrival it was quickly determined that incident was relatively minor and did not require additional resources.
The second accident was reported shortly after 10 p.m. Dispatch received a call for a motor vehicle accident on the corner of Second St. and Davies St.
“The on duty officer again responded with an engine. This incident was more serious as a vehicle had unsuccessfully attempted to make a turn at the intersection. The vehicle had crossed the oncoming lane of traffic and travelled onto the boulevard, striking a bus shelter,” reads a press release from Nelson Fire Rescue’s assistant fire chief Michael Daloise.
“Extensive damage resulted to the bus stop and it was very fortunate that nobody was in it at the time.”
While the officer was dealing with incident, dispatch received the third call about the vehicle fire at Panago.
“The initial report was that the vehicle was up against the building and flames were impinging on the restaurant. The on duty shift officer responded directly to the scene from the other incident and requested that the other on duty firefighter respond to the utility vehicle.”
Four off duty members were called from home. The Nelson Police Department’s members were first on scene and attempted to extinguish the fire using a portable extinguisher. Upon arrival the fire crews were able to wrench open the hood and extinguish the fire.
“As soon as the vehicle fire was knocked down the crews went into the restaurant to ensure that the fire had not extended inside. Fortunately there was no fire or smoke damage inside the restaurant.”
“The driver of the vehicle was not in the vehicle when the fire started.”
Two fire engines were on scene along with one utility vehicle. No injuries were reported as a result of the incident. Damage is estimated at $1500.
“The cause of the fire is still under investigation but is not suspicious.”
Nelson Fire Rescue would like to take the opportunity to remind everyone that there is currently a complete fire ban both in Nelson and in the surrounding area.
