EL PASO, TEXAS (KFOX14/CBS4) — A Sun Metro bus caught fire in downtown El Paso on Sunday afternoon, and video captured flames shooting from the back of the vehicle.
Video provided by FitFam shows the bus on fire near Oregon Street and Franklin Avenue.
According to the El Paso Fire Department, crews were called to the scene at about 4:30 p.m. Firefighters were able to knock the fire down.
Officials said no injuries were reported.
In a statement emailed to KFOX14/CBS4 on Monday, Sun Metro said preliminary findings show that the fire was caused by an “accidental mechanical failure” due to the vehicle’s air conditioning system.
“Safety of our passengers and employees is a priority at Sun Metro. We are grateful to report that no injuries occurred. We also extend our thanks to the El Paso Fire Department for their swift response and support. Preliminary findings indicate that the fire was caused by an accidental mechanical failure involving the vehicle’s air conditioning system. The operator responded immediately, and all passengers were safely evacuated. The incident did not cause a significant disruption of service,” the city of El Paso said on behalf of Sun Metro.
Adding, “Incidents like this are extremely rare. Out of an abundance of caution, Sun Metro is conducting a thorough internal review. The bus had recently undergone routine preventive maintenance and inspection. Sun Metro maintains its fleet in accordance with strict federal and industry safety standards, with regular, scheduled inspections to ensure reliability and performance. While reconstruction of the Maintenance Facility Center is ongoing, it has not impacted our ability to maintain vehicles to these high standards. Our maintenance program remains fully operational and well-resourced.”
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