Electric Car Erupts in Flames at Colorado Mall

DENVER (KDVR) Several Littleton, Colorado, businesses were evacuated Sunday afternoon after an electric vehicle caught fire in the shopping center parking lot, according to South Metro Fire Rescue.

“When those battery cells ignite, they off-gas HF gas. Again, when that’s mixed with water, it’ll create hydrofluoric acid that creates a significant hazard, not only to us as the responders, but also to the environment around it,” said hazmat team member Patrick Comitor.

The fire happened in the parking lot at 100 W. Littleton Blvd., where a King Soopers and several other businesses are located. Officials at 2 p.m. Sunday said the fire was under control.

Fire officials said the business evacuations were a precaution, and they did not specify which businesses were evacuated. Officials later said the businesses will reopen after air monitoring.

“So I think the big thing with the EVs, they are still very safe. Obviously, we do have situations like this, just like normal vehicles, where they do catch fire. Just be alert when you are charging your vehicles, especially in your home,” said Comiter.

Officials said a large amount of smoke was visible in the area. No one has reported any injuries at this time.

Officials said the cause of the fire is under investigation.