Fire destroys Smithfield auto garage

Sept. 18--SMITHFIELD -- A fire broke out early Thursday morning at an auto garage in Smithfield Township, destroying the garage and its contents, according to the owner and the Smithfield Fire Department.

Paul Ackley owned and operated the garage for 16 years that was located across the street from his Mac Road home. He said it was a total loss, including two trucks and four tractors inside belonging to Ackley's customers.

A family member who lives across the road and next to the garage was awakened by a loud explosion at about 2 a.m. and immediately called 911, Ackley said. A second explosion rocked the rural neighborhood shortly after.

Ackley said tanks used to power oxy-acetylene torches and welders were likely the source of the explosions, but Smithfield Fire Chief John DeWitt said the cause of the initial fire is undetermined at this time.

The fire was essentially extinguished by 2:30 a.m., Ackley said.

DeWitt said when he arrived on scene, the garage was fully involved.

Responders used an excavator to sift through the steel and wood, which DeWitt said was made even more difficult due to the structure collapsing in, to put out any remaining hot spots and embers.

A neighbor said nearby homes looked as if they were painted orange due to the size of the fire, claiming flames were taller than the trees.

Ackley said he and his family managed to save a trailer, tractor, camper, car and a buggy -- all of which were stored outside, but near, the garage -- from the flames, but said the fire burned so hot it began to melt a tarp covering the back of the camper.

Ackley said the garage roof caved in before responders arrived due to the intense flames.

The garage did have insurance, Ackley said. He would like to rebuild, but said when and how he rebuilds is dependent on the insurance.

Ackley's wife Beth Ackley said several local auto garages have offered help to the family.

"It's a loss for the community," DeWitt said of Ackley's garage being destroyed.

Smithfield Fire Department was assisted by Ridgebury, Troy, North Towanda, and Ulster fire departments, as well as the Tri Township Ambulance Association's Smithfield and Ridgebury divisions.

DeWitt said no responders were injured fighting the fire and the departments were back in service at about 7 a.m. after closing the road for about three hours.

Max Bennett can be reached at (570) 888-9652; or email: mbennett@thedailyreview.com.

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