Just after 10:30 p.m. Sunday, the Guam Fire Department rushed to the Global Recycling Center on Batulo Street in Dededo.

What began as a reported auto fire quickly escalated into a raging inferno, multiple tires, vehicles, and a makeshift structure fully engulfed.

With heavy smoke and flames, GFD Spokesperson Capt. Nick Garrido says they did urge residents in East Santa Barbara and East San Antonio to consider temporary evacuation for safety and with the help of the Dededo Mayor Peter Benavente

“Me and my staff, we went out there so we could manage the traffic so GFD can do their work and make sure we check the adjacent streets where the down wind was going to ensure no smoke was going toward the residential area. We were ready to evacuate if needed but everything was okay,” said Benavente.

Three GFD engines fought the flames but additional assistance was needed.

Garridio explained, “The unit that first arrived requested assistance from an additional unit they also requested for a tanker through our mutual aid and the reason being is because the closest hydrant was on marine drive and the other closest was on the other side near Guam International Golf Course, so we required assistance from Andersen Fire, Joint Region, Naval Base, as well as the Guam International Airport Authority,” said Garrido.

By 2 a.m., the fire was under control. Crews stayed on scene until 5 a.m. Monday to ensure all hot spots were extinguished.

Benavente adds that this is the first time he's encountered a fire in this particular area.

“I dread the day that that area gets on fire because there's so much tires right near global recycling area which is the proposed EPA headquarters which they have pile of tires and we were worried that it would spread to that side but GFD, AARF, JRM, AAFB, and likewise with the boys from Camp Blaz, they did a tremendous job on containing the fire. It took a while but they did a great job,” added Benavente.

No injuries were reported but as for the cause of the fire?

“There is an investigation underway. This is in collaboration with partner agencies Guam EPA, Guam Police Department, as well as our Fire Prevention Bureau, our fire marshal, and arson investigator," said Garrido.

Garrido also stated that something that they have been seeing more often are auto fires.

“This weekend's incident is a prime example of when an auto fire ignites and catches on to something....we share these stories that occur in hopes to avoid any future incidents like this to happen again. From the fire department perspective to all and any call that comes our way,” added Garrido.