BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Crews are investigating a two-alarm fire at Metalico Buffalo, a scrap metal recycling company on Fillmore Avenue.
Firefighters arrived at the site around 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Commissioner William Renaldo said it took three hours to battle the flames because of hydrocarbons in the pile of scrap metal.
"Lawnmowers to automobiles to motorcycles. They're supposed to have the gas tanks and oil tanks drained completely, but I'm sure they get some of those vehicles that aren't," said Commissioner Renaldo.
Below is footage of the smoke billowing from the site of the fire
Thick smoke could be seen from Buffalo's Waterfront and North Buffalo.
"It was hazardous. Very hazardous," said witness James Jordan. "I thank God that I didn't have to breathe any of that smoke in."
Erie County's Hazardous Materials Response Team did test the air and told 7 News there was no cause for concern.
Some surrounding streets were closed while crews worked on containing the fire.
"I honestly believe a scrap yard should be in a rural area," said Christopher Cox who lives across the street.
Fire officials said no one was injured and damage is estimated at $2 million, including some of Metalico Buffalo's equipment.
