KIRKWOOD, NY - During the peak of Friday afternoon rush hour on March 18th, the Five Mile Point Fire Department was dispatched to the area of Interstate 81 South at the exit 3 off-ramp for a reported vehicle fire.

A short time later, Chief 59A arrived and reported a fully involved Chevy Trailblazer on the right shoulder at the top of the exit 3 off-ramp. Squad 59 arrived next and stretched a line to extinguish the fire. While Squad 59s crew went to work, Engine 59-2 arrived and provided a block in the right lane and exit ramp. Engine 59-1 would later arrive to supplement water to Squad 59.

The driver of the vehicle advised that he was driving on the highway when he began having mechanical issues and pulled over just before the entire underside of his vehicle burst into flames. The fire is not believed to be suspicious.

In all, the Five Mile Point FD responded with the squad and both engines with a total of 12 personnel and operated on scene for one hour and 11 minutes. Also assisting on scene were New York State Police, Broome County Sheriff's Department and New York State DOT. Due to the timing of the incident traffic was slowed in the area and backed up on Interstate 81.