The Colorado Springs Fire Department (CSFD) responded to a vehicle fire on Sunday around 7 p.m. near the intersection of Delaware Drive and East Bijou Street. When firefighters arrived, a large van was already fully engulfed in flames, and the fire was spreading to a second van parked nearby.
Investigation labels fire as suspicious
CSFD officials told a KRDO13 crew on the scene that the cause of the blaze appeared “suspicious,” and the department has opened an investigation. While the exact trigger remains unknown, the fire crews credited a drone that hovered over the scene with helping them locate the hot spot more quickly, allowing them to bring the fire under control faster than usual.
Second hose‑drive‑over incident prompts safety warning
In the same evening, CSFD reported a second incident in which a driver unintentionally drove over a fire hose that had been laid out for the van fire. The department emphasized that driving over a hose can cause it to burst, cut off water flow, and create additional hazards for both firefighters and the public.
CSFD urges any motorists who encounter a fire scene to turn around and find an alternate route. “If you see a fire scene, do not attempt to drive through the area,” a spokesperson said. “Leaving the hose intact ensures our crews have the water they need to protect lives and property.”
How the community can help
Residents are encouraged to stay informed about local emergencies through the KRDO13 app, which provides real‑time alerts and updates. The department also asks the public to report any suspicious activity that could lead to a fire, as early reporting can aid investigators and potentially prevent future incidents.
CSFD continues to investigate the cause of the van fire and will release further details as they become available. In the meantime, the department reminds the community that fire safety is a shared responsibility and that obeying traffic directions around emergency scenes saves lives.
Contact information
For non‑emergency inquiries, Colorado Springs Fire Department can be reached at (719) 555‑1234. Residents who witness a fire or suspect arson should call 911 immediately.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.