Early Arrival FULLY INVOLVED 3 Electric Tractor Trailers on Fire – Newark, New Jersey – 2/19/26

Описание: Around 12:15AM, the Newark Fire Department was dispatched to 888 Doremus Avenue at the GEODIS facility for a reported electric truck fire at a large one-story commercial warehouse.

Upon arrival, the first due engine and officer found heavy fire involving three electric tractor cabs, along with an additional trailer burning and minor extension to the exterior of the warehouse. The first due engine stretched multiple handlines within minutes of arrival and began suppression operations.

Due to the involvement of electric tractor units powered by large lithium-ion battery systems, firefighters faced challenges associated with thermal runaway — a chain reaction within battery cells that can cause prolonged burning, re-ignition, and intense heat release. These types of fires require sustained water application, cooling of battery compartments, and extended overhaul operations due to the potential for continued battery discharge even after visible flames are knocked down.

Chief 5 transmitted a full box on the assignment, with all hands working. The Signal 11 was transmitted shortly after. With fire extension to the exterior of the building, crews laddered the structure and initiated a primary search inside while exterior companies continued suppression efforts.
Fire blankets were requested and deployed to assist in containing thermal runaway conditions. The Cascade unit was also called to the scene for additional SCBA bottles due to the toxic smoke conditions associated with battery involvement. The incident was classified as a Level 1 Hazmat response.

The bulk of the fire was knocked down in approximately 50 minutes, although battery discharge continued. At 2:16AM, Deputy 1, who assumed command approximately 15 minutes into the incident, placed the fire under control with a fire watch in place. Deputy 1 transmitted a Signal 11 with a Signal 9 for additional resources.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. There were no reported injuries.