East Austin Fire Devastates Abandoned Body Shop, No Injuries Reported

A fire that gutted a shuttered body shop in east Austin on Thursday afternoon left the structure a total loss and caused an estimated $50,000 in damage, yet no injuries were reported. The blaze erupted near Manor Road and Manorwood Road, just east of Airport Boulevard, and was visible in video footage that captured the building engulfed in flames. Construction equipment lay nearby, hinting at the site’s recent use. Firefighters arrived swiftly, working to contain the spread and protect surrounding properties.

Incident Overview

The Austin Fire Department (AFD) recorded the incident in its official incident reports, noting the fire began around 3:55 p.m. At least two fire engines were dispatched to the scene, reflecting the severity of the situation. A KXAN photojournalist documented firefighters spraying water onto the structure, and by approximately 4:20 p.m. the building no longer displayed active flames. The rapid response helped prevent further damage to adjacent properties and ensured public safety.

Fire Timeline

At 3:55 p.m., the first alarm sounded as smoke and flames appeared on the shuttered body shop. Within minutes, crews arrived and began deploying hoses. By 4:10 p.m., the fire had expanded to cover most of the building’s exterior, prompting additional units to assist. The final extinguishment was confirmed at 4:20 p.m., when the last visible flames were extinguished and the structure was deemed no longer a fire hazard.

Firefighting Efforts

Firefighters focused on cooling the structure’s exterior and preventing the fire from reaching any remaining combustible materials. The use of high-volume water streams helped reduce the intensity of the blaze. Teams worked in coordination with each other, with one unit maintaining a perimeter to keep the fire contained while another focused on the building’s interior. The presence of construction equipment nearby allowed crews to use it as a barrier to protect surrounding streets and buildings.

Damage Assessment

AFD estimated the damage at $50,000, reflecting the loss of the structure and associated debris. The building, described as a shut-down body shop, was covered in graffiti according to a March 2024 Google Street View photo. The total loss designation indicates that the cost of repair would exceed the value of the property. No injuries were reported, and the incident did not pose a threat to nearby residents.

Investigation Status

The cause of the fire remains undetermined, with investigators still examining potential ignition sources. AFD has not released any preliminary findings, and the incident remains under investigation. The lack of clear evidence makes it difficult to assign blame or identify a specific cause at this time.

Historical Context of the Site

Historical images and recent street view footage reveal the building had been inactive for some time, with graffiti covering its exterior. The site, located near Manor Road and Manorwood Road, had been a body shop before closing. The presence of construction equipment suggests that the area may have been undergoing renovation or demolition prior to the fire, although no definitive link has been established.

Community Impact

While the fire did not result in injuries, the incident disrupted traffic on Airport Boulevard and nearby streets. Residents expressed concern over the sudden loss of the structure and the potential for future hazards. Local businesses in the vicinity reported minor disruptions due to temporary road closures and the presence of emergency vehicles.

Official Statements

In a social media post, AFD confirmed that the structure was a total loss and that no injuries were reported. The department also stated that the damage estimate was $50,000. No additional details were provided beyond these facts, and the department urged the public to remain vigilant as investigations continue.

Key Takeaways

• Fire began at 3:55 p.m. near Manor Road and Manorwood Road, east of Airport Boulevard.
• Two fire engines responded; flames were extinguished by 4:20 p.m.
• Damage estimated at $50,000; structure declared a total loss; no injuries.

Closing

The east Austin fire serves as a reminder of the risks posed by abandoned structures, especially those with visible graffiti and nearby construction activity. As investigators work to determine the cause, the community will likely await further updates from the Austin Fire Department. Until then, residents can take comfort in the fact that the emergency response was swift and no lives were harmed.