Fire destroys Divide auto shop

By John Grant Emeigh - 11/20/2008

An unattended woodstove sparked the flames that destroyed a Divide auto repair and parts shop Thursday morning.

The fire was first reported about 9:15 a.m. when the owner of Brax Euro Parts called to say his shop was on fire. Firefighters from the Melrose Volunteer Fire Department were the first to attack the blaze, but were unable to save the wood-frame structure.

Fire Services Director Jeff Miller said the shop owner, Brack Smith, had just started the woodstove in the garage that morning to warm the building and left the shop. Embers may have escaped from the stove and ignited the fire, Miller said.

Smith tried unsuccessfully to put the fire out with a small fire extinguisher, and called 911, according to the fire report.

The shop, located at 77020 Highway 43, just off the Interstate 15 exit at Divide, collapsed in on itself as firefighters battled the blaze. Tools and auto parts stored in the shop were lost in the fire. Smith specialized in Volkswagen parts and repair, and has been located there for many years.

No injuries were reported.

Miller estimates the total loss to be about $100,000.

Firefighters were able to contain the fire to the garage. There were reports of a metal tank containing a flammable liquid next to the burning building, but responders were able to keep the fire from spreading, Miller said.

Responders from Butte-Silver Bow Fire Department and Boulevard and Rocker volunteer fire departments assisted in fighting the fire.

John Grant Emeigh may be reached via e-mail at john.emeigh@lee.net or by telephone, 496-5511