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Fire crews responded swiftly Friday afternoon to a vehicle fully engulfed in flames at the Preston Harbor parking area, drawing attention from nearby shoppers and residents.
The incident occurred just after 5 p.m. on August 8, 2025, in the lot adjacent to the Harbor View Marketplace. Witnesses reported seeing thick black smoke rising above the waterfront before bright orange flames became visible.
“I was walking out of the store and saw this huge plume. It was pretty scary,” said Maria Gonzalez, a local shopper who captured video of the scene. “The fire was really intense.”
Personnel from the Preston Fire Department arrived within minutes and found the car completely ablaze. Crews deployed a hose-reel jet to knock down the flames, bringing the fire under control in approximately 10 minutes. No injuries were reported, and nearby vehicles were moved to safety.
Fire officials stated that the car was unoccupied at the time of the fire, and the owner was located shortly after the incident. Preliminary assessments suggest the blaze may have originated in the engine compartment, though the exact cause remains under investigation.
“We’re thankful no one was hurt,” said Fire Captain Linda Torres. “Our team acted quickly to prevent the fire from spreading to surrounding cars or structures. We remind everyone to keep a fire extinguisher in their vehicle and to have it regularly serviced.”
The Harbor View Marketplace, a popular retail hub on Preston’s waterfront, remained open while the parking lot section was cordoned off for cleanup. Business owners reported minimal disruption.
This is not the first vehicle fire in the area this year. In March, a pickup truck caught fire on the nearby bridge due to a fuel leak. That incident also ended without injuries.
Local authorities urge drivers to watch for warning signs such as dashboard warning lights, unusual smells, or smoke. Regular maintenance checks on electrical systems and fluid levels can reduce the risk of a fire.
The Preston Fire Department is coordinating with the county’s fire investigation unit to determine whether a mechanical failure or an external factor caused the car to ignite. Results are expected later this week.
Community members are advised to avoid the parking area until the cleanup is complete. Updates will be posted on the city’s emergency notification system.
For more information on vehicle fire prevention, visit the National Fire Protection Association’s website or contact your local fire station for safety checklists.
