Effingham Fire Causes $325,000 in Damage

Fire did an estimated $325,000 damage Friday night at a local trucking company.

Effingham Fire Department was dispatched to Hetzel Overland Transport, 815 S. Maple Street at 8:04 pm. Upon arrival two semi-tractors were on fire up against a building and fire visible on the eaves of the building. Fire was visible from the eaves on the north wall of the building traveling across the north face. Firefighters quickly knocked down the fire on the building and began extinguishing the two semi-tractors.

Upon entering the building, firefighters reported light smoke inside. Utilizing thermal imaging cameras, firefighters surveyed the north wall of the structure up to underside of the roof - reporting minimal heat, and the main body of fire was reported under control at 8:25pm.

Further investigation of the building revealed no evidence of fire damage to the inside. The Investigation included reviewing security camera recordings showing the initial phase of the fire. The first semi-tractor was plugged in to a electrical shore line with indications of an electrical short. As the fire became more intense, the second semi-tractor parked next to it caught on fire. The intensity of the two semi-tractors burning then started the fire on the building. The total loss of the two semi-tractors, contents of both tractors, and structural damage is estimated at $325,000.00.

Tri-Power Towing was called to the scene to remove both semi-tractors away from the building. No injuries were reported. Crews cleared the scene just before 10:00pm.