Topeka firefighter injured in late-night blaze at car dealership

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - A Topeka firefighter suffered minor injuries as crews battled a blaze late Wednesday at a car dealership on the city’s south side, officials said.

The blaze was reported around 10:35 p.m. Wednesday at Cable Dahmer Chevrolet, 3731 S.W. Topeka Blvd.

Flames and smoke were reported coming from the dealership’s repair shop when crews arrived at the scene.

The repair shop is located at the back -- or west side -- of the complex.

Topeka Fire Marshal Alan Stahl said crews quickly extinguished the blaze.

A Topeka Fire Department Investigation Unit responded to the scene to determine the cause and origin of the blaze.

Stahl said the cause of the fire was determined to be accidental, originating on or near the ventilation unit for the paint booth in the vehicle-body repair garage.

Stahl said one firefighter was treated for minor injuries on the scene.

No other injuries were reported.

Fire officials say the interior of the building sustained only smoke damage.

An estimated dollar loss associated with the fire wasn’t available on Thursday morning.

The Topeka Fire Department response included three engine companies, two truck companies, one aerial company, two battalion chiefs and one fire investigator.

Assisting agencies included the Kansas State Fire Marshal’s Office, American Medical Response ambulance, Evergy and Kansas Gas Service.

WIBW’s Cole Hermesch contributed to this report.

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