A man dashed out of his vehicle in the nick of time before it became engulfed in flames on Oct. 9 in Aurora.
Central York Fire Services said the man contacted emergency personnel after a vehicle sensor notified him it was overheating. He could smell the vehicle burning.
“Central York Fire Services extinguished an engine fire and engaged hydro to ensure the power lines above the car were not damaged,” said Amber Blackburn, senior communications specialist.
York Region paramedics assessed the man for minor injuries as York Regional Police directed traffic. Sam Saberi, owner of Tina’s Grill at 330 McClellan Way, said the incident occurred in front of his business at about 2:30 p.m. He was on a break outside when he heard a loud bang. He saw smoke and ran to the vehicle to ensure the driver was safe.
“I thought it was like something out of a movie,” said Saberi. “I have never seen something like that in my entire life. It was scary how fast the car caught on fire and how fast it blew up.”
He saw people passing by the vehicle snapping photos. He was on the road trying to stop traffic before police arrived. He said a man from telMAX lent him pylons to keep people away from the vehicle. He said the driver was going to a mechanic before it blew up because it was recalled.
Police confirm the vehicle was a four-door Kia but are unsure what year it was.
Transport Canada has issued vehicle recalls for several Kia models due to engine, electrical and brake issues. These include the Kia Soul, Telluride and Sorento.
Saberi said the driver could not believe what happened and left his identification in the car.
Saberi returned to his kitchen to cook a few pounds of chicken wings for first responders to thank them for their service. He said they had been on the scene for two hours.
Police have not deemed the fire suspicious, have not laid any charges, and are unsure of the cost of the damage.
