Van Bursts Into Flames on Heywood Street as Fire Crews Tackle Blaze

Download IPFS

A van suddenly caught fire on a street in Heywood, Greater Manchester, on the afternoon of 30 July, drawing a swift response from emergency services. The blaze, which sent thick plumes of black smoke into the air, was brought under control by fire crews within the hour.

The incident occurred around 1:55 p.m. on Market Street, where a white van became engulfed in flames. Video footage circulated online shows the dramatic moment the fire intensified, with the vehicle’s front cab completely alight and an audible alarm sounding nearby. Locals gathered at a safe distance as the fire raged, concerned about the potential for explosions or nearby property damage.

The Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) confirmed they were in attendance for approximately 50 minutes. A spokesperson said: “We were called at 13:55 to reports of a van fire in Heywood. One fire engine attended and used a hose reel to extinguish the blaze. Crews remained on scene to ensure the area was safe.”

No injuries have been reported at this stage, and the cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed. Witnesses suggested the fire may have originated in the engine bay, though this remains unverified. Authorities are expected to conduct further investigations into the incident.

While the situation was resolved without casualties, the incident has reignited local concerns over vehicle safety and the importance of rapid emergency response times in semi-urban communities. The scene has now been cleared, and traffic in the area has returned to normal.

This event serves as a reminder of the quick and professional work of the GMFRS, whose timely intervention prevented the fire from spreading and ensured public safety.